Most of this stuff seems to revolve around freewill, or the perversion of it. So you’re probably right. There is a really interesting book the premise of which is much of the Old Testament is code for sexual activities. Anytime types of wood are mentioned, sitting on cushions, what they had for dinner, etc. I forget the name of it.

Other than selfish motivations, I wouldn’t be surprised if promises of riches, health or averting the destruction of the world (last one sound familiar?) were involved.