There are two systems of value in our ancient heritage. The Mosaic tradition places supreme value on worship of God as sovereign and all-powerful. The Homeric tradition puts ultimate faith in man and his ability to control and overcome natural obstacles. Christian ethics and morality are based on a god-given system of laws, a concept of right and wrong, divine retribution for evildoing and divine salvation for the contrite and humble. Humanistic ethics are based on man-made laws, utilitarian cooperation and mutual respect, salvation being the result of human efforts to improve the conditions of life.
Mosaic religion emphasizes the temporary nature of human life and the glories of the hereafter.
Homer's heroes enjoy life with all of its adventures, pleasures and problems. Man is the master of his own fate. Moses said man was made in the image of God. To Homer the gods are anthropomorphic, made in the image of man. Throughout western history these two traditions have been in conflict.