Course content

The course includes a historical and comparative study of three contemporary religions originating from the Middle East: Judaism, the oriental churches and Islam. An emphasis is placed on the correlation between (a) religious belief and practice, and societal institutions and (b) the scriptures, methods of interpretation, and authorities that form and develop religious knowledge and guidance in various contexts and time periods. The course also deals to some extent with the design of the religions in western countries and regions.

Learning outcome

According to the course curriculum, a candidate who passes this course is expected to have the following learning outcome (defined as knowledge and skills):

Knowledge

The candidate has attained

• basic knowledge of the origins, development, textual sources and interpretative traditions of the three religions
• basic knowledge of how concepts from religious studies and some other scientific disciplines can be applied comparatively in the study of Judaism, the Oriental Churches and Islam
• knowledge of what constitutes good scientific practice regarding sources and references
• understanding of how the three religions develop in accordance with society

Skills

The candidate has acquired skills to

• account for the origins and developments of Judaism, Oriental Christianity and Islam
• apply concepts from religious studies in accounts of the three religions

Learning methods and activities

The instruction consists of lectures and group work.

In order to sit the exam, three approved group assignments are required. For more information on the obligatory activity, see Blackboard. The obligatory activity can only be approved in the semester when the course is taught, but is valid in this and the subsequent term.

Compulsory assignments

• Approved obligatory activity

Required previous knowledge

None.

Course materials

The required reading list will be available at the beginning of the semester.

Credit reductions