Problem: Solomon says, “O Lord, the God of Israel, there is no God like You in heaven above or on earth beneath” (1 Kings 8:23). Critical scholars note that this passage seems to support henotheism: the notion that there is one infinite-personal God who is in control of other gods. This is sort of a mix between monotheism and polytheism. Is this the case?
Solution: While at first glance we might believe that this passage supports henotheism, the context precludes this possibility. Later in the chapter, Solomon says, “The Lord is God; there is no one else” (v.60). Moreover, the psalmist explains, “For all the gods of the peoples are idols, but the Lord made the heavens” (Ps. 96:5). Likewise, Isaiah writes, “Declare the things that are going to come afterward, that we may know that you are gods; indeed, do good or evil, that we may anxiously look about us and fear together. 24 Behold, you are of no account, and your work amounts to nothing; he who chooses you is an abomination” (Isa. 41:23-24).
1 Kings 8:23 – Does this passage support henotheism?
