The ex-biblical life of Abraham

Abraham grew up in Ur approximately 3,800 years ago. Idolatry was widespread there at that time.

Legend tells that Abraham's father Terah was an idol maker. But after some time, Abraham realised that there must be a God that is far greater than all the deities being worshipped. Abraham discovered God.

At that time, most people napped during the afternoon heat. One afternoon, while his father Terah was asleep, Abraham took a hammer and smashed all te idols, except the largest of idols, in his father's workshop. He then placed a hammer at the base of the remaining idol. When his father awoke, he was appalled. Abraham explained that the big idol, in a fit of jealousy had smashed all the others. "Don't be a fool," said his father, "These are merely carved stones." "If they are only stone, father," counter Abraham, "then why do you worship them?"

Terah realised Abraham was correct. Later, Terah brought Abraham to Canaan and Haran, the place where monotheism was to be nurtured.

So you see, it was Abraham who chose God first. After that, God chose Abraham to be the father of nations.

This story is from the book "The Science of God". The author attributed the story to Talmudic legend.

Interesting?