Analyzing Prothero´s The World's Religions

Prothero is writing his book in response to a line of thinking that states the religions of the world are essentially the same. Contrasting with this thinking, Prothero argues that the world religions may have occasional similarities, but the end point and the steps towards this end point are specific to each religious view. Prothero is stating religions are different and, while some may have similarities, they should be understood by looking at their differences. According to the book’s introduction, the idea that “the world’s religions are different paths up the same mountain” is not a new phenomenon. William Blake wrote about this in 1795. A more recent example would be Huston Smith’s book The World’s Religions, which was written almost sixty years ago. This book also presents the idea of religious unity. Granted, the idea that religions all meet at the same goal has been around for a long time. But, history has shown us many instances where religious ideas, those ideas that separate religions, have caused conflict. Prothero mentions this when he cites the 21st century actions such as the 9/11 attacks and the Kashmir territorial
Both believe in the same God. Abraham, recognized by both Jews and Christians, spoke with God and followed his commands. Therefore, Christianity and Judaism are one in the same since they can trace their origins back to a single person. I believe this would be the main point of contention in regards to this class. However, while the origins are the same, the other beliefs that are part of these two religious traditions separate them. While I do admit I have a lack of knowledge about Judaism, I think of this example when showing that the two faiths are different. In Christianity, Jesus is the Messiah and came to save us from sins. For those in the Jewish tradition, the Messiah has not arrived