An introductory survey of the religions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Theories, methods, and inclusion of relevant information may vary according to instructors and sections.
Athena Title
Judaism Christianity Islam
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in RELI 1001E, RELI 2001H
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall, spring and summer
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, students should be able to describe the fundamental beliefs, sacred texts, rituals, and key historical developments of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
By the end of this course, students should be able to explain the historical relationships, shared origins, and points of divergence between the three Abrahamic traditions.
By the end of this course, students should be able to examine and compare passages from the Hebrew Bible, the New Testament, and the Qur’an to understand their theological themes and significance.
By the end of this course, students should be able to discuss how Judaism, Christianity, and Islam shape and influence modern societies, cultures, and global issues.
By the end of this course, students should be able to recognize and appreciate the diversity within each tradition and explore interfaith dialogue as a means of fostering mutual understanding and respect.
By the end of this course, students should be able to construct well-organized written arguments that critically engage with religious texts, historical developments, and contemporary issues related to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
Topical Outline
I. Introduction to the Study of Religion
A. Defining religion and its societal functions
B. Overview of the Abrahamic traditions
C. Methods for studying religion (historical, theological, comparative approaches)
II. Historical and Theological Foundations
A. The concept of monotheism and revelation
B. Shared origins: Abraham and the covenant
C. The role of prophets and sacred texts
III. Judaism
A. Core beliefs and theological themes
B. Sacred texts: The Hebrew Bible (Tanakh) and Talmud
C. Key rituals and religious practices (Sabbath, kosher laws, holidays)
D. Historical developments (Temple periods, exile, diaspora)
E. Major denominations and modern expressions of Judaism
IV. Christianity
A. The life and teachings of Jesus
B. Core beliefs and theological themes (Trinity, salvation, grace)
C. The New Testament and Christian scriptures
D. Worship, sacraments, and religious practices
E. Major historical developments (early Church, Reformation, denominational splits)
V. Islam
A. The life of Muhammad and the origins of Islam
B. Core beliefs and theological themes (Tawhid, prophethood, afterlife)
C. The Qur’an and Hadith as sacred texts
D. The Five Pillars of Islam and key religious practices
E. Sunni, Shia, and other Islamic sects and movements
VI. Comparative Analysis of Sacred Texts
A. Themes of justice, mercy, and law in the Hebrew Bible, New Testament, and Qur’an
B. Methods of interpretation within each tradition
C. The role of scripture in shaping religious identity and practice
VII. Worship, Rituals, and Religious Spaces
A. Prayer and communal worship in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam
B. Religious holidays and their significance
C. The role of religious leaders and institutions
VIII. Historical Interactions and Conflicts
A. Jewish-Christian relations in antiquity and the Middle Ages
B. Islamic expansion and encounters with Judaism and Christianity
C. The Crusades, the Inquisition, and interfaith conflicts
D. Examples of coexistence and cultural exchange
IX. Religion and Modernity
A. Responses to secularism, scientific developments, and globalization
B. Reform movements and contemporary challenges in each tradition
C. The role of religion in shaping personal and social ethics
X. Religion and Society
A. The intersection of religion, politics, and law
B. Gender roles and religious identity
C. Religion and human rights issues
XI. Interfaith Relations and Dialogue
A. Historical and contemporary examples of interfaith cooperation
B. Theological and practical approaches to dialogue
C. Challenges and opportunities for interreligious engagement today
XII. Contemporary Issues and Case Studies
A. Religion’s role in modern conflicts and peacebuilding efforts
B. Religious extremism and its impact
C. The future of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam in a changing world
