Is God a Moral Monster? Making Sense of the Old Testament God is a 2011 book by Paul Copan, a Christian philosopher and theologian. It addresses challenging depictions of God in the Hebrew Bible, often perceived as morally problematic by contemporary readers. The book examines passages frequently cited as evidence of divine cruelty or injustice, such as the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah or the command to exterminate the Canaanites. Copan offers interpretations of these texts within their ancient Near Eastern context, arguing that understanding the cultural and historical background is crucial for proper interpretation.
The work contributes to ongoing theological and philosophical discussions about the nature and character of God. It provides resources for those wrestling with difficult biblical texts and seeking to reconcile faith with ethical concerns. By exploring the historical and cultural context of the Old Testament, the book aims to provide a more nuanced understanding of the divine portrayals found within it. This approach can be valuable for both believers seeking to deepen their understanding of scripture and skeptics questioning the morality of the biblical God.