Religion & Theology with Gerhard van den Heever

Abstract

Gerhard van den Heever presents the history of the journal Religion & Theology, from its start as an in-house theological journal for the University of South Africa to its current frame as an international publication for the transdisciplinary study of religion and theology as discourse formation. Van den Heever presents insights into the journal’s management and shares insights for those interested in submitting their research.

The world religions paradigm: Why context matters in religious studies

“…To argue against the WRP's method of introducing first-year students to the study of religion through compartmentalization at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, it is necessary to delve into the history of religion education in South Africa. Against the backdrop of the historical context, Van den Heever (1994) argues that any theoretical reflection on religion and the study thereof cannot be undertaken without examining the political landscape of South Africa.…”

“…According to Van den Heever (1994), religious communities in the 1990s attempted to insulate themselves against political change in the country. By considering religion as ahistorical and monolithic, Christianity was regarded as the truth, distinguishing it from falsehood (other faiths).…”