JOURNAL OF RELIGIOUS HISTORY

Scope & Guideline

Advancing knowledge of the sacred in historical contexts.

Introduction

Immerse yourself in the scholarly insights of JOURNAL OF RELIGIOUS HISTORY with our comprehensive guidelines detailing its aims and scope. This page is your resource for understanding the journal's thematic priorities. Stay abreast of trending topics currently drawing significant attention and explore declining topics for a full picture of evolving interests. Our selection of highly cited topics and recent high-impact papers is curated within these guidelines to enhance your research impact.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0022-4227
PublisherWILEY
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited States
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1960 to 2024
AbbreviationJ RELIG HIST / J. Relig. Hist.
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address111 RIVER ST, HOBOKEN 07030-5774, NJ

Aims and Scopes

The Journal of Religious History serves as a comprehensive platform for the exploration of religious phenomena across historical contexts. Its primary focus encompasses a wide array of methodologies and interdisciplinary approaches to the study of religion, reflecting the complex interplay between faith, culture, and society throughout different periods and regions.
  1. Historical Contextualization of Religion:
    The journal emphasizes the importance of situating religious practices, beliefs, and institutions within their historical contexts, exploring how they evolve and interact with societal changes over time.
  2. Interdisciplinary Approaches:
    It encourages the integration of various academic disciplines, including history, anthropology, sociology, and literary studies, to provide a more nuanced understanding of religious phenomena.
  3. Focus on Marginalized Voices:
    The journal often highlights the experiences and contributions of marginalized groups within religious traditions, including women, ethnic minorities, and LGBTQ+ communities, thus promoting a more inclusive narrative of religious history.
  4. Global Perspectives:
    It seeks to incorporate diverse global perspectives, examining religious developments not just in the Western context but also in Asia, Africa, and the Americas, thereby enriching the discourse on world religions.
  5. Critical Engagement with Contemporary Issues:
    The journal addresses contemporary religious issues by linking historical insights with current debates, such as secularization, religious pluralism, and the role of religion in public life.
The Journal of Religious History has shown a dynamic evolution in its thematic focus, reflecting contemporary scholarly interests and societal changes. Recent publications reveal several emerging themes that are gaining traction and prominence.
  1. Lived Religion:
    There is a growing emphasis on 'lived religion,' which examines how individuals and communities practice their faith in everyday life, moving beyond institutional frameworks to understand the personal dimensions of religious experience.
  2. Gender and Religion:
    Research exploring the intersections of gender and religion is on the rise, addressing topics such as women's roles in religious movements, gendered interpretations of sacred texts, and the impact of religion on gender identity and expression.
  3. Religious Pluralism and Interfaith Engagement:
    The journal is increasingly focusing on themes of religious pluralism and interfaith dialogue, reflecting a contemporary need to understand coexistence and conflict in diverse religious landscapes.
  4. Decolonization of Religious Studies:
    There is a notable trend towards decolonizing religious studies, which involves critically examining how colonial histories have shaped religious narratives and practices, and advocating for indigenous perspectives in the study of religion.
  5. Digital Religion:
    The exploration of how digital technologies influence religious practices and communities is emerging as a significant area of study, addressing the implications of social media, virtual worship, and online religious communities.

Declining or Waning

While the Journal of Religious History continuously adapts to the evolving landscape of religious studies, certain themes that once held prominence have seen a decline in recent publications. This waning focus may reflect shifting scholarly interests or changing societal contexts.
  1. Traditional Christian Denominational Studies:
    There appears to be a declining emphasis on studies that focus solely on traditional denominational histories, as the journal increasingly prioritizes broader themes that encompass inter-religious dynamics and pluralism.
  2. Historical Biographies of Prominent Religious Figures:
    While biographical studies of significant religious figures were once a staple, there is a noticeable decrease in this type of research, possibly due to a shift towards collective narratives and broader socio-religious movements.
  3. Secularization Narratives:
    The exploration of secularization as a linear and dominant narrative in religious history is waning, as scholars now often contend with the complexities and nuances of religious revival and persistence in contemporary society.
  4. Focus on Medieval and Early Modern Catholicism:
    There has been a noticeable reduction in papers solely dedicated to medieval and early modern Catholicism, as research increasingly integrates these periods into larger discussions of global religious transformations.
  5. Studies on Religious Conflict:
    While still relevant, the frequency of studies focusing narrowly on religious conflict has declined, giving way to more comprehensive examinations of interfaith dialogue and cooperation.

Similar Journals

JOURNAL OF CHURCH AND STATE

Exploring the Intersection of Faith and Governance
Publisher: OXFORD UNIV PRESSISSN: 0021-969XFrequency: 4 issues/year

Journal of Church and State is a leading interdisciplinary journal dedicated to the exploration of the complex relationships between religion and government, published by Oxford University Press. With an ISSN of 0021-969X and an impressive E-ISSN of 2040-4867, this journal serves as an essential platform for scholars in the fields of History, Religious Studies, and Sociology and Political Science. Recognized for its scholarly contributions, it holds a prestigious Q1 ranking in both History and Religious Studies, positioning it among the top journals in these disciplines for 2023. The journal’s robust scope spans historical perspectives, contemporary debates, and critical analyses related to church-state interactions, making it indispensable for researchers, professionals, and students alike. With access options that reflect its academic integrity, the Journal of Church and State continues to enrich scholarly discourse and foster a deeper understanding of religious influences on governance and vice versa.

Studies in Chinese Religions

Delving into the Historical and Contemporary Practices of Chinese Religions
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 2372-9988Frequency: 4 issues/year

Studies in Chinese Religions is a prestigious academic journal published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, focusing on a diverse range of topics within the field of religious studies, particularly those related to Chinese religions. With an ISSN of 2372-9988 and an E-ISSN of 2372-9996, this journal serves as an essential platform for researchers, professionals, and students seeking to explore the intricate landscape of religious practices, beliefs, and historical developments in China. Since its inception in 2015, Studies in Chinese Religions has contributed significantly to advancing scholarly discourse, evidenced by its positioning in the Q2 category for Religious Studies and its Scopus rank of 442/644 as of 2023. The journal offers in-depth articles, reviews, and original research that illuminate the complexities of Chinese religious traditions and their global implications. Although it does not currently offer open access options, it remains a vital resource for academic advancement in understanding the socio-cultural dimensions of religion in a rapidly changing world. Join a vibrant community of scholars dedicated to unearthing the rich tapestry of Chinese religious practices by submitting your research and engaging with cutting-edge scholarship.

JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF RELIGION

Connecting scholars to the heart of religious inquiry.
Publisher: OXFORD UNIV PRESS INCISSN: 0002-7189Frequency: 4 issues/year

The Journal of the American Academy of Religion, established in 1933, is a leading peer-reviewed journal published by Oxford University Press that serves as a significant platform for scholarly discourse in the field of religious studies. Recognized for its impact factor and esteemed ranking as Q1 in the 2023 category of Religious Studies, this journal is indexed among the top-tier publications, holding the 52nd position out of 644 in the Scopus Arts and Humanities classification. With a focus on advancing the understanding of various religious phenomena, the journal publishes innovative research that spans a wide array of contexts and traditions, making it an essential resource for researchers, scholars, and practitioners alike. While the journal does not offer open access options, its rigorous standards and rich archival content ensure that it remains a pivotal locus for academic engagements on religion in contemporary society.

Archiv fur Religionsgeschichte

Bridging Cultures Through Scholarly Inquiry
Publisher: WALTER DE GRUYTER GMBHISSN: 1436-3038Frequency: 1 issue/year

Archiv für Religionsgeschichte is an esteemed academic journal dedicated to the exploration and scholarly analysis of religious history, published by Walter de Gruyter GmbH in Germany. Renowned for its critical contributions to Religious Studies, this journal, with an ISSN of 1436-3038, represents a pivotal resource for researchers, professionals, and students aiming to deepen their understanding of the historical narratives and contexts shaping contemporary religious practices and beliefs. As evidenced by its rankings in Scopus, where it occupies the 285th position out of 644 in the Arts and Humanities category, it has secured a respectable Q3 quartile status in 2023, reflecting its influence and reach within the discipline. While the journal does not currently offer open access options, it remains a vital publication within the field, welcoming innovative research and interdisciplinary approaches that address the complexities of religious history from various cultural perspectives.

Culture and Religion

Engaging Scholars in the Study of Cultural Beliefs
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1475-5610Frequency: 4 issues/year

Culture and Religion is a distinguished academic journal published by ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD, focusing on the intricate relationships between cultural dynamics and religious practices. With an ISSN of 1475-5610 and an E-ISSN of 1475-5629, this journal has carved out a significant place in the Cultural Studies, Philosophy, and Religious Studies disciplines, as reflected by its current Q3 ranking in these fields. The journal aims to foster a critical dialogue among scholars and practitioners, providing a platform for innovative research that intersects diverse cultural and religious contexts. Although not fully open access, it is well-respected in the academic community, as indicated by its Scopus rankings—positioned at #316 in Religious Studies and #456 in Philosophy. Published in the United Kingdom, Culture and Religion invites contributions that advance understanding and stimulate scholarly debate about the roles of culture in shaping religious thought and experience, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike.

European Journal of Science and Theology

Navigating the Rich Terrain of Thought and Belief
Publisher: ACAD ORGANISATION ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING & SUSTAINABLE DEVISSN: 1841-0464Frequency: 6 issues/year

The European Journal of Science and Theology, published by ACAD ORGANISATION ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING & SUSTAINABLE DEV, is a distinguished platform for scholarly discourse at the intersection of science, theology, and philosophy. With an ISSN of 1841-0464 and E-ISSN 1842-8517, this journal plays a crucial role in fostering interdisciplinary understanding and dialogue among researchers and practitioners. Ranking in the Q3 category in multiple fields, including Engineering (miscellaneous), History and Philosophy of Science, and Multidisciplinary studies, and achieving an impressive Q1 status in Religious Studies, the journal stands out for its contributions to academic literature. The journal's converged years span from 2008 to 2024, reflecting a commitment to sustained scholarly engagement. While access to its content may vary, its impact within the Arts and Humanities sector, where it ranks as #84/644 in Religious Studies and #76/223 in History and Philosophy of Science, positions it as a vital resource for students, scholars, and professionals dedicated to exploring the broader implications of scientific and theological inquiry. Based in Romania, at Mangeron Blvd No 71A, PO 10, Box 2111, Iasi 700050, this journal continues to inspire and challenge established paradigms, making it a must-read for anyone engaged in these critical discussions.

Dinbilimleri Akademik Arastirma Dergisi-Journal of Academic Research in Religious Sciences

Illuminating insights in religious sciences.
Publisher: DINBILIMLERI AKAD ARASTIRMA MERKEZIISSN: 1303-9199Frequency: 2 issues/year

Dinbilimleri Akademik Arastirma Dergisi - Journal of Academic Research in Religious Sciences is a distinguished periodical dedicated to advancing the field of religious studies through rigorous academic research. Published by DINBILIMLERI AKAD ARASTIRMA MERKEZI, this journal fosters scholarly dialogue and dissemination of knowledge, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. With its ISSN 1303-9199, the journal is committed to providing open access to its rich array of articles, ensuring that valuable insights and findings in religious sciences are widely available. Located at Ondokuz Mayıs University in Samsun, Turkey, this journal contributes significantly to the academic landscape by offering critical examinations of contemporary and historical issues in religion. Emphasizing quality and relevance, the journal aspires to facilitate a deeper understanding of religious phenomena in our increasingly interconnected world.

HISTORY OF RELIGIONS

Diving Deep into the Evolution of Spiritual Practices
Publisher: UNIV CHICAGO PRESSISSN: 0018-2710Frequency: 4 issues/year

History of Religions, published by University of Chicago Press, is a leading academic journal dedicated to the scholarly exploration of religious history across cultures and eras. With an ISSN of 0018-2710 and an E-ISSN of 1545-6935, this prestigious journal is well-regarded in the disciplines of History and Religious Studies, proudly holding a Q2 category ranking in both fields as of 2023. The journal features rigorous peer-reviewed articles that delve into the complexities of religious traditions, practices, and transformations, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. Although it is not an open-access journal, its impactful research is published continuously from 1966 and remains highly relevant, providing valuable insights that contribute to the understanding of historical and contemporary religious phenomena. With a Scopus rank placing it in the top quartile of its category, History of Religions underscores its importance as a platform for innovative scholarship and critical discourse within this vibrant field.

Politics and Religion

Decoding the Influence of Religion on Political Landscapes
Publisher: CAMBRIDGE UNIV PRESSISSN: 1755-0483Frequency: 4 issues/year

Politics and Religion is a leading journal published by Cambridge University Press, focusing on the intricate interrelationships between political systems and religious beliefs. With an ISSN of 1755-0483 and an E-ISSN of 1755-0491, this esteemed journal has achieved notable recognition, being classified in the Q1 category for Religious Studies and Q2 in Sociology and Political Science in 2023. Its exceptional standing is underscored by its Scopus rankings, placing it in the 98th percentile for Religious Studies and 73rd percentile for Sociology and Political Science. Spanning research and discourse from 2008 to 2024, the journal aims to foster a deeper understanding of how political ideologies shape and are shaped by religious contexts globally. Though not open access, the journal remains a crucial resource for researchers, professionals, and students eager to explore contemporary issues at the intersection of faith and governance, uncovering insights that are relevant to diverse audiences throughout the United Kingdom and beyond.

Osmanli Arastirmalari-The Journal of Ottoman Studies

Connecting Past Narratives to Present Identities
Publisher: ISTANBUL 29 MAYIS UNIV & ISAMISSN: 0255-0636Frequency: 2 issues/year

Osmanli Arastirmalari-The Journal of Ottoman Studies, published by ISTANBUL 29 MAYIS UNIV & ISAM, is a premier academic journal focusing on the multifaceted history and cultural studies of the Ottoman Empire and its enduring legacy. With a commitment to advancing scholarly discourse, this journal has successfully established itself within the cultural studies and history fields, evidenced by its current ranking in the Q3 quartile for both categories in 2023. The journal is dedicated to providing a platform for researchers, professionals, and students to disseminate original research findings spanning various disciplines related to Ottoman studies. As a crucial resource for informed analyses and interpretations of historical contexts, it invites contributions that explore the complexities of Ottoman society, politics, and culture from 2015 to 2022. Although it currently does not offer Open Access, the journal's impact on the field remains significant, fostering a deeper understanding of historical narratives that continue to shape modern cultural identities.