Oxford Journal of Law and Religion

Scope & Guideline

Examining the Convergence of Legal Frameworks and Religious Thought

Introduction

Immerse yourself in the scholarly insights of Oxford Journal of Law and Religion 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
ISSN2047-0770
PublisherOXFORD UNIV PRESS
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2012 to 2023
AbbreviationOXF J LAW RELIG / Oxf. J. Law. Relig.
Frequency3 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressGREAT CLARENDON ST, OXFORD OX2 6DP, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The Oxford Journal of Law and Religion serves as a scholarly platform dedicated to the intricate interplay between legal frameworks and religious practices. It aims to explore how law and religion intersect across various cultures, jurisdictions, and historical contexts, contributing to a deeper understanding of their mutual influences and evolving dynamics.
  1. Interdisciplinary Exploration of Law and Religion:
    The journal focuses on the intersection of law and religion, providing a space for interdisciplinary research that examines how legal systems and religious beliefs impact one another across different cultures and societies.
  2. Analysis of Religious Autonomy and Legal Frameworks:
    A core area of research involves the autonomy of religious institutions within legal frameworks, exploring the implications of legal decisions on religious practices and vice versa.
  3. Cultural Contexts of Religious Practices:
    The journal emphasizes the importance of cultural contexts in understanding religious practices and legal interpretations, particularly how local customs and traditions influence both law and religion.
  4. Human Rights and Religious Freedom:
    A significant focus is on human rights issues related to religion, including the rights of religious minorities, gender perspectives in religious practices, and the implications of legal decisions on religious freedoms.
  5. Historical and Contemporary Analysis:
    The journal publishes works that analyze both historical and contemporary issues related to law and religion, offering insights into how past legal frameworks and religious doctrines continue to influence current practices.
The journal has shown a dynamic evolution in its thematic focus, with several emerging trends that reflect contemporary societal challenges and scholarly interests. This section outlines the key themes that are gaining traction in recent publications.
  1. Gender Perspectives in Law and Religion:
    An increasing number of papers are addressing gender issues within religious contexts, particularly how legal systems interact with and impact women's rights and roles in religious communities.
  2. Impact of Modern Governance on Religious Institutions:
    Recent publications have started to explore how modern governance, including state policies and public funding, influences religious institutions and practices, indicating a trend towards examining the relationship between state and religion.
  3. Legal Responses to Religious Extremism:
    There is a growing trend in the journal to address legal frameworks and responses to religious extremism, examining how laws can be shaped to counteract radicalization while respecting religious freedoms.
  4. Transnational Legal Perspectives:
    Emerging research focuses on transnational issues in law and religion, particularly how global movements and cross-border interactions affect local legal systems and religious practices.
  5. Interfaith Legal Dialogue:
    There is a notable increase in studies promoting interfaith dialogue about legal principles, reflecting a trend towards collaborative approaches in addressing common legal and ethical challenges across different religious traditions.

Declining or Waning

While the Oxford Journal of Law and Religion covers a broad spectrum of topics, certain themes appear to be declining in prominence over recent years. This section highlights those areas that have seen a reduction in publication frequency or scholarly interest.
  1. Traditional Canon Law:
    There has been a noticeable decrease in papers focusing specifically on traditional canon law, possibly due to a shift towards more contemporary issues surrounding the interaction of law and religion in modern contexts.
  2. Historical Legal Texts:
    Research centered on historical legal texts and their interpretations seems to be waning, as scholars increasingly prioritize current legal challenges and the practical implications of law in religious contexts.
  3. Theoretical Discussions on Secularism:
    Theoretical explorations of secularism, while still relevant, have seen a decline as more applied studies focusing on the practical intersections of law and religion take precedence.
  4. Religious Dress and Symbolism:
    The specific examination of religious dress and its legal implications appears to be less prominent, perhaps overshadowed by broader discussions on religious freedom and autonomy.
  5. Regional Studies of Islamic Law:
    While Islamic law remains a core area, region-specific studies focusing solely on traditional applications of Islamic law are becoming less common, as researchers engage more with comparative legal frameworks.

Similar Journals

Interdisciplinary Journal for Religion and Transformation in Contemporary Society

Exploring the Nexus of Faith and Change
Publisher: BRILLISSN: 2365-3140Frequency: 2 issues/year

The Interdisciplinary Journal for Religion and Transformation in Contemporary Society, published by BRILL, is a distinguished open-access journal that has been at the forefront of scholarly discourse since its inception in 2015. Focusing on the dynamic interactions between religion and societal transformation, this journal provides a vital platform for researchers, professionals, and students to explore the complexities of religious studies within contemporary contexts. With a robust Q1 ranking in Religious Studies and a noteworthy presence in the social sciences, the journal enjoys a commendable impact in its field, evidenced by its Scopus ranking that places it in the top 16% of its category. Operating from the Netherlands, the Interdisciplinary Journal not only prioritizes accessibility through its open-access format but also fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, making it an essential resource for those striving to understand the intricate ways that religion impacts societal transformations across the globe.

Revue Cirkevniho Prava-Church Law Review

Navigating the Nuances of Ecclesiastical Jurisprudence
Publisher: SPOLECNOST CIRKEVNI PRAVOISSN: 1211-1635Frequency: 4 issues/year

Revue Cirkevniho Prava-Church Law Review is a pivotal academic journal dedicated to the study and discussion of church law, a vital field intersecting legal, theological, and social dimensions. Published by SPOLECNOST CIRKEVNI PRAVO in the picturesque city of Prague, Czech Republic, this journal serves as a platform for scholars and practitioners to engage with the latest research, legal frameworks, and case studies related to ecclesiastical law. While the journal does not currently offer open access, it is committed to advancing knowledge within its specialized field, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students interested in the implications and applications of church law in contemporary society. With its focus on rigorous scholarship and comprehensive analysis, Revue Cirkevniho Prava stands out as a reputable publication that contributes significantly to both academic discourse and practical understanding in church-related legal studies.

Studia Canonica

Fostering Dialogue in Canon Law and Religious Studies
Publisher: PEETERSISSN: 2295-3019Frequency: 2 issues/year

Studia Canonica is an esteemed academic journal published by PEETERS, dedicated to the field of religious studies with a particular focus on canonical law and ecclesiastical matters. Since its inception in 2009, the journal has steadily contributed to the discourse around theological, ethical, and legal issues within religious contexts, making noteworthy strides in advancing the understanding of canon law as it adapts to contemporary challenges. Operating in Canada and with its headquarters in Leuven, Belgium, Studia Canonica is positioned to engage a diverse international audience, offering insights that are crucial for researchers, professionals, and students alike. Although currently categorized in the fourth quartile for religious studies by Scopus, the journal's commitment to rigorous peer-reviewed scholarship remains evident, serving as a platform for emerging voices and established scholars alike. Despite its open access status, those interested can explore its rich archives and contributions that span from 2009 to 2023, offering a wealth of knowledge and fostering dialogue within this specialized field.

Occasional Papers on Religion in Eastern Europe

Bridging Cultures: The Intersection of Faith and Society
Publisher: CHRISTIANS ASSOC RELATIONSHIPS EASTERN EUROPEISSN: Frequency: 1 issue/year

Occasional Papers on Religion in Eastern Europe is a premier journal dedicated to the exploration of religious phenomena within Eastern European contexts. Published by the Christians Association Relationships Eastern Europe, this journal serves as an essential resource for scholars, researchers, and students interested in the intricate interplay between religion and cultural dynamics in this diverse region. Its E-ISSN, 1069-4781, signifies its commitment to accessibility and dissemination of knowledge, although it currently does not offer open access. The journal publishes original research, reviews, and case studies that enrich the field and foster a deeper understanding of religious practices and their societal implications in Eastern Europe. With a robust editorial board comprised of leading experts, the journal aims to contribute significantly to the academic dialogue surrounding religion in Eastern Europe, making it a valuable addition to your research and professional library.

International Journal of Latin American Religions

Exploring the Rich Tapestry of Latin American Spirituality
Publisher: SPRINGERNATUREISSN: 2509-9957Frequency: 2 issues/year

International Journal of Latin American Religions, published by SpringerNature, is a leading peer-reviewed journal dedicated to advancing the understanding of religious practices, beliefs, and developments across Latin America. Since its inception in 2017, the journal has established a prominent position in critical fields, earning distinguished Q1 and Q2 rankings in History, Religious Studies, and Anthropology, which reflects its commitment to high-quality scholarship and research influence. With a Scopus rank that places it within the top percentiles of its discipline, the journal offers an integrative platform for scholars and practitioners to explore the diverse tapestry of Latin American religions. The Open Access model promotes greater visibility and accessibility of research findings, fostering collaborations among a global audience. This journal plays a pivotal role in synthesizing academic discourse and fostering innovative research, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students passionate about the intricate interplay of culture, history, and spirituality in Latin America.

Kosciol i Prawo

Connecting Scholars on Law and Spirituality
Publisher: TOWARZYSTWO NAUKOWE KULISSN: 0208-7928Frequency: 2 issues/year

Kosciol i Prawo is a distinguished academic journal dedicated to the interdisciplinary exploration of law in relation to its ecclesiastical aspects, published by the TOWARZYSTWO NAUKOWE KUL. With an ISSN of 0208-7928 and an E-ISSN of 2544-5804, this open-access journal has been fostering scholarly discourse since 2012, ensuring that its valuable insights are accessible to researchers, professionals, and students alike. Based in Lublin, Poland, the journal serves as a vital platform for the dissemination of research related to legal theory, practice, and the intersection of law and religion. As researchers aim to understand the evolving legal landscape, Kosciol i Prawo provides a critical forum for exchanging findings, perspectives, and studies that contribute to the broader dialogue on the influence of ecclesiastical law in contemporary society. Its commitment to scholarly rigor and open access reflects a broader trend in academia towards increased availability of knowledge, making it an essential resource for anyone delving into this intriguing field.

ZEITSCHRIFT FUR RELIGIONS-UND GEISTESGESCHICHTE

Investigating the Intersections of Culture, Faith, and Ideology
Publisher: BRILLISSN: 0044-3441Frequency: 4 issues/year

ZEITSCHRIFT FUR RELIGIONS-UND GEISTESGESCHICHTE is a prominent academic journal published by BRILL, focusing on the intricacies of religious and intellectual history. Since its inception in 1929, this journal has provided a key platform for scholarly discourse, offering insights into the historical evolution of religious beliefs and philosophical thought. Although it currently holds a Q4 ranking in the fields of History, Philosophy, and Religious Studies according to the 2023 category quartiles, it serves as an important resource for researchers and students alike who are engaged in these disciplines. With an ISSN of 0044-3441, the journal strives to foster academic dialogue and critical analysis, contributing to the understanding of how religious and philosophical ideologies shape human experience. The journal is based in Leiden, Netherlands, and while it does not currently offer open access, it supports the academic community by providing essential research articles that are invaluable for those exploring the intersections of faith, culture, and thought.

Ecclesiastical Law Journal

Advancing Scholarship in Ecclesiastical Law.
Publisher: CAMBRIDGE UNIV PRESSISSN: 0956-618XFrequency: 3 issues/year

The Ecclesiastical Law Journal, published by Cambridge University Press, serves as a crucial academic platform for the exploration and discourse of legal issues within ecclesiastical contexts. Since its inception in 1987, this journal has fostered an interdisciplinary dialogue, bridging the fields of law and religious studies with a keen focus on the implications of ecclesiastical law in contemporary society. Although it currently holds a Q4 category in both Law and Religious Studies for 2023, the journal's contributions are invaluable to researchers, practitioners, and students alike, seeking to understand the complexities of legal traditions interwoven with religious thought. With its commitment to rigorous scholarship, the Ecclesiastical Law Journal is a vital resource for those engaged in the academic study of law, theology, and their intersection, supporting the ongoing development of this essential area of inquiry.

Material Religion

Advancing Understanding of Materiality in Religion
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1743-2200Frequency: 4 issues/year

Material Religion is a premier scholarly journal dedicated to examining the interplay between material culture and religious practices, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, based in the United Kingdom. Since its inception in 2005, the journal has established itself as a vital resource in the fields of Religious Studies and Visual Arts and Performing Arts, holding a commendable Q2 quartile ranking and featuring a robust Scopus ranking that places it in the top 13% of its discipline. Designed to foster interdisciplinary dialogue, Material Religion offers a platform for innovative research that explores how material objects influence and are influenced by religious beliefs and practices. With no open access options, this journal continues to thrive as an essential reference for researchers, professionals, and students eager to understand the complexities of materiality in the context of religion and art. Positioned at the intersection of diverse academic fields, Material Religion not only contributes to scholarly discourse but also encourages critical reflections on how society engages with the material aspects of spirituality.

STUDIES IN RELIGION-SCIENCES RELIGIEUSES

Innovating Perspectives in Religious Studies
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTDISSN: 0008-4298Frequency: 4 issues/year

STUDIES IN RELIGION - SCIENCES RELIGIEUSES, published by SAGE Publications Ltd, serves as a premier platform for scholarly research in the field of Religious Studies, with an ISSN of 0008-4298 and an E-ISSN of 2042-0587. As a journal with a distinguished history dating back to 1971, it has established itself in the Q1 category of Religious Studies and ranks an impressive 173 out of 644 in Scopus, positioning itself in the 73rd percentile among its peers. The journal not only aims to disseminate innovative research that advances understanding of religious phenomena but also fosters critical dialogue among scholars, professionals, and students alike. Although it does not currently offer Open Access options, its rigorous peer-review process ensures that published articles meet the highest academic standards. Situated in the United States, the journal is committed to maintaining scholarly excellence and relevance in an ever-evolving field of study, making it an essential resource for anyone engaged in the academic exploration of religion.