The Religions of the Middle East: A Comparative Approach

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

This course serves as an introduction to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, the three "Abrahamic"faiths. Though historical context will be important to our study, the course will be organized thematically as a means of trying to capture the key differences as well as similarities among the three religions. The main themes to be addressed include: Scripture & Tradition, Monotheism, Authority, Worship & Ritual, Ethics, Art, and Religion and the Political Orders. In view of significant contemporary events, an ongoing effort will be made to examine the role of each religion in the 21st century. No previous knowledge of the subject is necessary.