Final answer:
Monotheism is defined as the belief in a single, supreme deity, commonly associated with religions like Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. Polytheism involves the belief in multiple deities, as observed in Hinduism and the religions of Ancient Greece and Rome. The characteristics listed are accordingly categorized by associating each statement with either monotheism (M) or polytheism (P).
Step-by-step explanation:
Monotheism and polytheism are two fundamental categories used to describe religious belief systems. Monotheism is characterized by the belief in a single, all-powerful deity, whereas polytheism encompasses religions that worship multiple deities, each with their own domain and power. Here's how the characteristics listed by the student are categorized:
- P - The predominant religious system of the ancient world. (Polytheism)
- P - Elements of good versus evil. (This can be present in both, but more characteristic of polytheism in the context of multiple gods embodying different aspects.)
- M - Redemption is a crux. (Monotheism often emphasizes redemption through a single deity.)
- P - Gods controlled nature and the lives of men. (Typical of polytheistic belief systems.)
- P - Used deities as an explanation for natural occurrences. (Polytheism, where various gods are responsible for different aspects of nature.)
- M - Belief in an apocalyptic end of the world. (Often associated with monotheistic religions that predict a final judgment or end times.)
- P - Belief in the fate of humans at the will of the gods. (Multiple gods influence human fate in polytheistic beliefs.)
- P - The Egyptians. (Ancient Egyptians practiced polytheism.)
- M - Zoroastrianism. (An early form of monotheism.)
- M - Belief in an all-powerful deity. (Defining feature of monotheism.)
It is important to recognize that these categories are not always clear-cut as there can be overlapping beliefs and practices within specific religions.