Shofar-An Interdisciplinary Journal of Jewish Studies

Scope & Guideline

Bridging Disciplines to Enrich Jewish Understanding

Introduction

Explore the comprehensive scope of Shofar-An Interdisciplinary Journal of Jewish Studies through our detailed guidelines, including its aims and scope. Stay updated with trending and emerging topics, and delve into declining areas to understand shifts in academic interest. Our guidelines also showcase highly cited topics, featuring influential research making a significant impact. Additionally, discover the latest published papers and those with high citation counts, offering a snapshot of current scholarly conversations. Use these guidelines to explore Shofar-An Interdisciplinary Journal of Jewish Studies in depth and align your research initiatives with current academic trends.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0882-8539
PublisherPURDUE UNIV PRESS
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited States
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2014 to 2024
AbbreviationSHOFAR / Shofar
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address1207 SOUTH CAMPUS COURTS-E, W LAFAYETTE, IN 47907-1207

Aims and Scopes

Shofar-An Interdisciplinary Journal of Jewish Studies is dedicated to exploring and analyzing the multifaceted dimensions of Jewish life, history, and culture through an interdisciplinary lens. The journal aims to engage a diverse academic audience by publishing research that addresses both historical and contemporary issues related to Jewish identity, politics, and culture.
  1. Interdisciplinary Approaches to Jewish Studies:
    The journal encourages methodologies that integrate perspectives from history, literature, sociology, theology, and cultural studies to provide a comprehensive understanding of Jewish experiences.
  2. Critical Examination of Jewish Identity:
    Papers often focus on the complexities of Jewish identity, including discussions on race, gender, and religious affiliations, reflecting the diverse narratives within the Jewish community.
  3. Historical Contextualization:
    Research frequently contextualizes Jewish experiences within broader historical frameworks, such as the Holocaust, Zionism, and diasporic movements, to highlight the interplay between past and present.
  4. Cultural and Literary Analysis:
    The journal emphasizes the analysis of Jewish literature, art, and cultural expressions, showcasing how these mediums reflect and shape Jewish thought and identity.
  5. Political and Ethical Discourse:
    Contributions often engage with contemporary political issues affecting Jewish communities globally, including debates on Zionism, anti-Semitism, and social justice, fostering critical dialogue.
Recent publications in Shofar reflect emerging trends that highlight contemporary issues, intersectionality, and innovative approaches to Jewish studies. These themes resonate with current sociopolitical contexts and broaden the scope of Jewish scholarship.
  1. Intersectionality and Diversity in Jewish Identity:
    There is a growing focus on the intersectionality of Jewish identity, exploring how race, ethnicity, gender, and sexuality interact within Jewish contexts, which signifies a move towards more inclusive scholarship.
  2. Critiques of Zionism and Post-Zionism:
    An increasing number of papers critically engage with Zionism and present post-Zionist perspectives, reflecting contemporary debates within and outside the Jewish community regarding identity and statehood.
  3. Holocaust Studies and Memory:
    Research on Holocaust memory continues to be prominent, but with a shift towards exploring its implications in contemporary discourse, including issues of representation and collective memory.
  4. Cultural Production and Representation:
    Emerging themes include the analysis of cultural production, such as literature, film, and art, examining how these forms reflect and challenge Jewish identities and experiences in modern contexts.
  5. Social Justice and Activism:
    Papers increasingly address social justice issues within Jewish communities, linking historical narratives to contemporary movements, such as anti-racism and feminism, highlighting a commitment to activism and ethical discourse.

Declining or Waning

As the journal evolves, certain themes that once held prominence appear to be waning. This decline is indicative of shifts in academic focus and the changing landscape of Jewish studies.
  1. Traditional Religious Studies:
    There is a noticeable decrease in papers focused solely on traditional religious practices and theological discussions, as the journal increasingly prioritizes contemporary cultural and political analyses.
  2. Historical Narratives of Jewish Victimhood:
    While historical studies remain important, there is less emphasis on singular narratives of victimhood, with a shift towards more complex, multifaceted portrayals of Jewish resilience and agency.
  3. Ethnic and Nationalist Perspectives:
    Themes centered on ethnic nationalism, particularly in relation to Zionism, are becoming less frequent as the journal embraces more critical and diverse perspectives on Jewish identity.
  4. Focus on Historical Events without Contemporary Relevance:
    Papers that recount historical events without linking them to current issues or debates are appearing less often, reflecting a trend towards relevance in contemporary discussions.
  5. Gender Studies in Historical Context:
    Although gender studies remain significant, there seems to be a decline in papers that exclusively focus on historical gender roles within Jewish communities, as the journal seeks to integrate gender into broader sociopolitical discourses.

Similar Journals

Nordisk Judaistik-Scandinavian Jewish Studies

Unraveling the Complexities of Jewish Identity in Scandinavia
Publisher: DONNER INST RESEARCH RELIGIOUS & CULTURAL HISTORYISSN: 0348-1646Frequency: 2 issues/year

Nordisk Judaistik-Scandinavian Jewish Studies is a distinguished academic journal dedicated to the exploration of Jewish culture, history, and religious practices in the Scandinavian context. Published by the DONNER INSTITUTE FOR RESEARCH ON RELIGIOUS AND CULTURAL HISTORY in Finland, this journal has been an open access platform since 2016, allowing easy dissemination of knowledge and fostering scholarly communication among researchers, educators, and students. With a variety of subjects encompassing Anthropology, Cultural Studies, History, and Religious Studies, the journal has achieved commendable recognition, with its latest rankings placing it in Q2 in several categories according to the 2023 Scopus rankings. The journal's significant contribution to the field is evident through its impact, evidenced by its strategic position within its respective quartiles. By bridging interdisciplinary methodologies and Jewish studies within a Scandinavian framework, Nordisk Judaistik serves as an essential resource for those engaged in the complexities and nuances of Jewish heritage and identity in the region.

Journal of Israeli History

Navigating the Intersection of Culture and Politics in Israel
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1353-1042Frequency: 2 issues/year

The Journal of Israeli History, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, is a distinguished platform dedicated to the exploration of the diverse and dynamic history of Israel. With an ISSN of 1353-1042 and an E-ISSN of 1744-0548, this journal has made significant contributions to the field since its inception, bridging cultural studies and political science. Recognized in 2023 with prestigious rankings such as Q1 in History and Q2 in Cultural Studies, the journal offers valuable insights and innovative scholarly work relevant to both historical interpretations and contemporary analyses. Although it does not offer Open Access, the journal is a critical resource for researchers, professionals, and students seeking to deepen their understanding of Israeli history, society, and politics. Situated in the UK at 2-4 Park Square, Milton Park, Abingdon OX14 4RN, Oxon, England, it continues to engage with historical narratives from 1994 through 2024, fostering a rich academic dialogue around the historical complexities of the region.

Kwartalnik Historii Zydow-Jewish History Quarterly

Connecting Cultures Through Jewish Historical Insights
Publisher: JEWISH HISTORICAL INSTISSN: 1899-3044Frequency: 4 issues/year

Kwartalnik Historii Żydów - Jewish History Quarterly is a dedicated academic journal published by the esteemed Jewish Historical Institute in Warsaw, Poland. With an ISSN of 1899-3044, this quarterly publication serves as a vital platform for scholarly discourse on Jewish history, culture, and heritage. The journal aims to reflect the diversity and complexity of Jewish experiences across historical contexts, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students in the fields of History, Religious Studies, and Cultural Studies. Despite its recent coverage discontinuation in Scopus from 2012 to 2015, the journal's rankings within its respective categories indicate a modestly engaged readership and potential for contribution, particularly seen in its ranks of 339/388 in Religious Studies and 859/975 in History. Although the journal operates on a non-open access basis, its curated articles enrich the understanding of Jewish narratives and interactions within broader socio-cultural frameworks, underlining its importance in promoting historical knowledge and cultural appreciation.

Journal of Modern Jewish Studies

Connecting Past and Present: The Pulse of Jewish Scholarship
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1472-5886Frequency: 4 issues/year

The Journal of Modern Jewish Studies, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, serves as a premier platform for scholarly discourse in the realm of Jewish studies, particularly addressing the contemporary intersections of culture, history, and political science. Established in 2002, this journal has become increasingly vital, as demonstrated by its categorization in the Q3 and Q4 quartiles across various fields, including Cultural Studies and History, showcasing its pivotal role within the academic community. Despite not being an open-access journal, it continues to maintain a robust ranking, being placed in the 74th percentile for History and 62nd percentile for Cultural Studies in the Scopus Ranks. This illustrates the journal's commitment to high-quality research and its significant contribution to understanding the complexities of modern Jewish life and traditions. Based in the United Kingdom, the journal's outreach and content are designed to engage researchers, professionals, and students who are passionate about exploring the diverse facets of Jewish identity and its implications in contemporary society.

STUDIA ROSENTHALIANA

Celebrating the Diversity of Jewish Scholarly Thought
Publisher: AMSTERDAM UNIV PRESSISSN: 1781-7838Frequency: 2 issues/year

STUDIA ROSENTHALIANA is a distinguished journal published by Amsterdam University Press, specializing in the interdisciplinary study of Jewish culture and history, particularly as it relates to the field of Rosenthaliana, encompassing literature, art, and historical scholarship. With a robust academic legacy dating back to its inception in 1970, the journal has evolved through various publication phases, maintaining a commitment to fostering scholarly discourse and disseminating significant research. Although it does not currently participate in an open access model, STUDIA ROSENTHALIANA continues to contribute invaluable insights to the fields of Jewish studies, cultural analysis, and historical research. Researchers, professionals, and students can benefit from its comprehensive essays, critical reviews, and analytical studies that enrich our understanding of Jewish heritage and modern implications. The journal's influence and relevance in its field make it an essential resource for anyone invested in contemporary debates and analyses concerning Jewish culture and identity.

JEWISH QUARTERLY REVIEW

Illuminating Jewish Thought Through Rigorous Analysis
Publisher: UNIV PENNSYLVANIA PRESSISSN: 0021-6682Frequency: 4 issues/year

Jewish Quarterly Review, published by University of Pennsylvania Press, is a distinguished academic journal that delves into the multifaceted realms of Jewish culture, history, and religious studies. With a rich publication history dating back to 1953 and an impressive track record of rigorous scholarship, this journal maintains a Q2 ranking in key categories such as Cultural Studies, History, and Religious Studies in 2023, placing it among the top-tier journals in its field. The ISSN number 0021-6682 and the E-ISSN 1553-0604 ensure that its scholarship is widely accessible and traceable in academic databases. While the journal is not open access, it remains an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students seeking in-depth analysis and perspectives on Jewish thought and heritage. The JQR is known for its editorial commitment to enhancing understanding and dialogue across cultural and historical contexts, making it an invaluable asset for anyone engaged in Jewish studies and related disciplines. With its headquarters in Philadelphia, PA, the journal continues to foster scholarly engagement and critical discourse on Jewish identity and experience through its carefully curated articles and reviews.

JEWISH SOCIAL STUDIES

Cultivating rigorous research in the humanities of Jewish Studies.
Publisher: INDIANA UNIV PRESSISSN: 0021-6704Frequency: 3 issues/year

Jewish Social Studies is a prominent peer-reviewed journal published by Indiana University Press, dedicated to advancing the field of Jewish scholarship through interdisciplinary exploration and critical inquiry. With an ISSN of 0021-6704 and an E-ISSN of 1527-2028, this journal has become a vital resource for researchers and scholars, achieving Q2 rankings in both History and Religious Studies, as well as strong standings in Anthropology and Cultural Studies. The journal bridges the gaps between diverse academic disciplines, focusing on the multifaceted dimensions of Jewish life, culture, and history, making it essential reading for anyone engaged in the study of Judaism. Although it does not currently offer Open Access options, the journal promotes a wealth of rigorous research, critical perspectives, and in-depth analyses that contribute significantly to the understanding of Jewish Studies from 1975 to the present day, with ongoing issues scheduled until 2024. With an established audience of scholars, professionals, and students, Jewish Social Studies remains a leading platform for intellectual discourse and scholarly exchange in the humanities.

East European Jewish Affairs

Delving into the Cultural Dynamics of East European Jewry
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1350-1674Frequency: 3 issues/year

East European Jewish Affairs is a prominent scholarly journal published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, dedicated to exploring the intricate historical, cultural, and political dynamics of Jewish communities in Eastern Europe. With ISSN 1350-1674 and E-ISSN 1743-971X, this journal has been a critical platform for academic discourse since its inception in 1992, resuming publication after a hiatus in 2005. Although it is not an open-access journal, it provides vital insights into Jewish studies, engaging researchers, professionals, and students alike with in-depth analyses and discussions. The journal currently holds a Q4 ranking in multiple categories, including Cultural Studies, History, and Political Science and International Relations, reflecting its niche yet significant contribution to these fields. The 2023 Scopus rankings position it within the 34th percentile in History and the 10th percentile in Political Science, evidencing its specialized focus and the evolving nature of Jewish studies. For those investigating the unique social and cultural trajectories of East European Jewish communities, East European Jewish Affairs serves as an essential resource.

Quest-Issues in Contemporary Jewish History

Connecting Scholars to the Heart of Jewish History
Publisher: FONDAZIONE CENTRO DOCUMENTAZIONE EBRAICA CONTEMPORANEAISSN: 2037-741XFrequency: 2 issues/year

Quest - Issues in Contemporary Jewish History is a pivotal open-access journal published by the Fondazione Centro Documentazione Ebraica Contemporanea in Italy. Since its inception in 2010, this journal has been dedicated to the scholarly exploration of the multifaceted dimensions of contemporary Jewish history, making significant contributions to the fields of history and cultural studies. With an ISSN of 2037-741X, it serves as a vital platform for researchers, professionals, and students alike, providing access to an array of insightful articles and research findings. As of 2023, it holds a respectable Q3 ranking in the History category within Scopus, indicating its growing influence in academia, alongside a rank of #899 out of 1760 in Arts and Humanities – History. This makes it an essential resource for those looking to deepen their understanding of Jewish history in a contemporary context. The journal, with its rich scholarly outputs converging from 2017 to 2023, is based in Milan and strives to foster high-quality research in Jewish studies.

European Journal of Jewish Studies

Exploring the Rich Tapestry of Jewish Identity and Culture
Publisher: BRILLISSN: 1025-9996Frequency: 2 issues/year

European Journal of Jewish Studies is a distinguished academic publication that offers a comprehensive platform for scholarly inquiry into Jewish studies, addressing critical intersections with cultural studies, history, literature, and religious studies. Published by BRILL, a leading academic publisher based in the Netherlands, this journal boasts a robust reputation supported by its impressive rankings and quartile classifications—Q3 in Cultural Studies, Q3 in History, Q2 in Literature and Literary Theory, and Q3 in Religious Studies as of 2023. With its convergence years spanning from 2007 to 2024, the journal serves as a vital repository of research that navigates the complexities of Jewish identity and culture through interdisciplinary lenses. Although it does not operate under an open access model, the journal's rigorous peer-review process ensures the publication of high-quality research essential for students, professionals, and academics alike. Engaging with this journal opens up pathways for critical dialogue and innovative contributions to the field, making it an essential resource for those invested in the rich tapestry of Jewish studies.