Which of the following religions was the first monotheistic faith closely tied to one ethnic group?

The correct answer is Judaism, which is recognized as the first major monotheistic religion closely associated with a specific ethnic group, the Hebrews or Israelites. Judaism's foundation is deeply interwoven with the cultural, historical, and social identity of the Jewish people.

Judaism emphasizes the worship of a single, all-powerful God and has a rich tradition rooted in the Hebrew Bible (Tanakh). Its practices, beliefs, and narratives are largely defined by the experiences and encounters of the Jewish people throughout history, particularly their covenant relationship with God as depicted in various texts.

In contrast, the other religions mentioned—Christianity, Buddhism, and Islam—while they may also involve significant ethnic populations, do not have the same foundational ethnic ties that characterize Judaism. Christianity, for example, evolved from Judaism and adopted a more universal outlook. Buddhism arose from the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, primarily in the context of South Asian culture, focusing on individual spiritual enlightenment rather than ethnic identity. Islam, while it has a strong community aspect and is associated with Arabic culture, has a broader appeal that transcends ethnic boundaries, encompassing diverse nationalities worldwide.

Overall, Judaism stands out for its historic and ethno-religious connection, marking it as the first mon