Stellenbosch Theological Journal

Scope & Guideline

Engaging with the heart of modern theological debates.

Introduction

Delve into the academic richness of Stellenbosch Theological Journal with our guidelines, detailing its aims and scope. Our resource identifies emerging and trending topics paving the way for new academic progress. We also provide insights into declining or waning topics, helping you stay informed about changing research landscapes. Evaluate highly cited topics and recent publications within these guidelines to align your work with influential scholarly trends.
LanguageMulti-Language
ISSN2413-9459
PublisherPIETER WAAL NEETHLING TRUST
Support Open AccessNo
Country-
Type-
Converge-
AbbreviationSTELLENBOSCH THEOL J / Stellenbosch. Theol. J.
Frequency2 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressC/O STELLENBOSCH UNIV, FAC THEOLOGY, PRIVATE BAG X1, MATIELAND, STELLENBOSCH 7602, SOUTH AFRICA

Aims and Scopes

The Stellenbosch Theological Journal focuses on the intersection of theology, social justice, and community engagement, emphasizing the relevance of faith in contemporary societal issues. It aims to foster scholarly dialogue that bridges traditional theological concepts with modern challenges.
  1. Practical Theology:
    The journal emphasizes practical theology, exploring how theological insights can be applied to real-world issues, particularly in marginalized communities.
  2. Social Justice and Ethics:
    A core focus on social justice, examining how theology interacts with issues like poverty, gender-based violence, and systemic inequality, promoting ethical responses to these challenges.
  3. Ecological and Environmental Theology:
    Incorporating themes of ecology and environmental justice, the journal addresses the theological implications of climate change and ecological stewardship.
  4. Cultural and Contextual Theology:
    The journal explores the interplay between theology and cultural contexts, particularly in post-colonial settings, examining how faith practices adapt to diverse cultural landscapes.
  5. Historical and Systematic Theology:
    Engaging with historical perspectives and systematic theological frameworks, the journal investigates the evolution of theological thought and its implications for contemporary faith communities.
  6. Interdisciplinary Approaches:
    Encouraging interdisciplinary dialogue, the journal integrates insights from philosophy, sociology, and ethics into theological discussions, enriching the academic discourse.
The Stellenbosch Theological Journal is increasingly focusing on contemporary issues that resonate with current societal challenges. This trend reflects a broader engagement with theology as a living discipline that responds to the needs of the community.
  1. Theology and Climate Justice:
    Recent publications highlight a growing concern for ecological issues, positioning theology as a critical lens through which to examine climate justice and environmental stewardship.
  2. Gender and Sexuality Studies:
    There is an emerging focus on gender and sexuality within theological discourse, particularly addressing the intersection of faith and LGBTQ+ issues, reflecting broader societal conversations.
  3. Post-Colonial Theology:
    An increasing number of papers engage with post-colonial perspectives, exploring the implications of colonial histories on contemporary theological practices and beliefs.
  4. Community Engagement and Social Transformation:
    A significant trend is the emphasis on community engagement, with articles reflecting on practical theology's role in social transformation and empowerment of marginalized groups.
  5. Digital Theology and Technology:
    With the rise of digital culture, the journal is beginning to explore themes related to digital theology, including the impact of technology on faith practices and community.
  6. Interfaith Dialogue:
    There is a notable increase in discussions surrounding interfaith dialogue, as the journal seeks to address the complexities of faith in a pluralistic society.

Declining or Waning

While the Stellenbosch Theological Journal has consistently engaged with a variety of theological themes, certain areas appear to be declining in prominence. This shift may reflect changing academic interests or societal concerns.
  1. Traditional Dogmatic Theology:
    There seems to be a decreasing emphasis on traditional dogmatic theology, with fewer papers focusing solely on doctrinal issues devoid of contextual application.
  2. Historical Theological Figures:
    The focus on historical figures and their theological contributions, while still present, appears to be waning in favor of more contemporary issues and practical applications.
  3. Liturgical Studies:
    Although liturgical themes are present, there is a noticeable decline in papers dedicated solely to liturgical studies, suggesting a shift towards more practical and socially engaged theological reflections.
  4. Abstract Theological Debates:
    There is a declining interest in abstract theological debates that lack practical relevance, as the journal increasingly favors discussions that directly address contemporary societal issues.
  5. Institutional Church Studies:
    Research focusing on institutional church dynamics and structures seems to be less frequent, indicating a move towards more grassroots and community-oriented theological explorations.

Similar Journals

Theology

Engaging Voices in the Evolution of Theology
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTDISSN: 0040-571XFrequency: 6 issues/year

Theology is a distinguished academic journal published by SAGE Publications Ltd, focusing on the dynamic intersection of faith, philosophy, and ethical discourse within the field of Religious Studies. Established in 1920, the journal provides a platform for rigorous scholarly dialogue and critical analysis, contributing significantly to contemporary debates and research in theology. With an impressive Scopus rank of 302 out of 644 in the genre of Arts and Humanities, it situates itself within the Q3 quartile in its field for 2023, demonstrating its relevance and scholarly impact. The journal features diverse research articles, reviews, and discussions, aiming to engage both emerging and established voices in theology. While it does not currently offer Open Access options, it remains a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students seeking in-depth knowledge and insights into religious thought and practice. With a publication history spanning multiple decades and a clear commitment to advancing theological inquiry, Theology is an essential read for anyone vested in the ongoing conversations that shape our understanding of faith in an ever-evolving world.

Logos & Pneuma-Chinese Journal of Theology

Bridging Tradition and Contemporary Thought
Publisher: LOGOS & PNEUMA PRESSISSN: 1023-2583Frequency: 2 issues/year

Logos & Pneuma-Chinese Journal of Theology, published by LOGOS & PNEUMA PRESS, serves as a vital platform for theological discourse and research within the context of Chinese religious studies. Established in 2008 and continuing to contribute valuable insights up until 2023, this journal holds a Q4 ranking in Religious Studies for 2023, illustrating its emerging influence within the field. Although it currently lacks an impact factor and open access options, the journal provides a unique perspective on contemporary theological issues and practices relevant to scholars and practitioners engaging with Chinese Christianity and other religious traditions. It is an essential resource for researchers, students, and professionals seeking to enrich their understanding of the interplay between religion and culture in a rapidly evolving social landscape. Located in the heart of the New Territories, China, the journal invites submissions that reflect a broad range of theological inquiries, encouraging critical engagement and scholarly dialogue.

ETUDES THEOLOGIQUES ET RELIGIEUSES

Challenging Paradigms, Expanding Perspectives
Publisher: INST PROTESTANT THEOLOGIEISSN: 0014-2239Frequency: 4 issues/year

ETUDES THEOLOGIQUES ET RELIGIEUSES, published by the prestigious Institut Protestant de Théologie in France, is a pivotal journal dedicated to advancing the field of religious studies. With an ISSN of 0014-2239, this academic publication showcases a diverse array of scholarly articles, reviews, and discussions that delve deep into theological discourse and religious phenomena. Despite its current Q4 category ranking in the broader scope of the Arts and Humanities, the journal serves as an invaluable platform for researchers, professionals, and students who seek to explore the complexities of religion in contemporary society. Covering a convergence of insights from 2002 to 2024, the journal aims to foster dialogue, critical thinking, and expanded knowledge within the religious studies community. Aiming to enhance its impact and visibility, ETUDES THEOLOGIQUES ET RELIGIEUSES invites contributions that challenge existing paradigms while encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration. Although it does not offer open access, the journal remains a respected source of scholarly content for those invested in the dynamic landscape of theology and religious inquiry, published in the vibrant academic context of Montpellier, France.

Studia Theologica-Czech Republic

Connecting Scholars Across the Spectrum of Faith
Publisher: UNIV PALACKEHO OLOMOUCIISSN: 1212-8570Frequency: 4 issues/year

Studia Theologica-Czech Republic is a leading academic journal dedicated to the field of religious studies, published by UNIV PALACKEHO OLOMOUCI. With an impressive Q1 ranking in 2023, it showcases rigorous and innovative research in theology and religious studies. Since its inception, this Open Access journal has been committed to disseminating scholarly articles that explore a broad spectrum of religious phenomena, interpretations, and historical contexts, making it an invaluable resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. The journal has transitioned from its initial print format to an Open Access model since 2015, allowing for wider accessibility and engagement within the academic community. Operating from Olomouc, Czech Republic, Studia Theologica not only contributes significantly to global discourse in the humanities but also provides a vital platform for interdisciplinary dialogue among theological scholars.

Toronto Journal of Theology

Illuminating Insights in Theology and Faith
Publisher: UNIV TORONTO PRESS INCISSN: 0826-9831Frequency: 2 issues/year

The Toronto Journal of Theology, published by University of Toronto Press Inc, is a premier academic journal dedicated to the exploration of theological discourse and religious studies. Established in 1990 and converging its insights from 2011 to 2024, this journal serves as a vital platform for researchers and scholars to publish innovative and impactful studies in the realm of theology. With an impressive ISSN of 0826-9831 and an E-ISSN of 1918-6371, the journal boasts a robust reputation, achieving a Q3 ranking in Religious Studies as per the 2023 category quartiles. It further ranks within the 49th percentile in the Scopus database, positioning it in the midst of esteemed academic discourse. Although it does not currently offer open access options, its rich content and pertinent studies are invaluable to professionals and students alike aiming to deepen their understanding of religious phenomena. As it continues to foster scholarly dialogue, the Toronto Journal of Theology remains a cornerstone for those advancing research in theology and related fields.

THEOLOGY TODAY

Navigating the Intersection of Faith and Society
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTDISSN: 0040-5736Frequency: 4 issues/year

THEOLOGY TODAY, published by SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTD, is a leading academic journal in the field of Religious Studies, recognized by its ISSN 0040-5736 and E-ISSN 2044-2556. With a publication history spanning from 1944 to the present, this journal provides a crucial platform for scholarly discourse surrounding contemporary theological issues, serving both the academic community and practitioners within the field. Despite being categorized in the Q4 quartile for its 2023 rankings, its Scopus rank of #297 out of 644 in Arts and Humanities highlights its relevance and growing influence in the discipline, achieving a 53rd percentile. The journal is dedicated to exploring a diverse range of theological perspectives and encourages submissions that advance our understanding of religion's role in modern society. Notably, while it does not operate under an open access model, researchers can still benefit from its thoughtfully curated content that engages with current trends and debates in theology.

Acta Theologica

Bridging disciplines to illuminate faith and understanding.
Publisher: UNIV FREE STATE, FAC THEOLOGYISSN: 1015-8758Frequency: 2 issues/year

Acta Theologica is a distinguished, peer-reviewed open-access journal published by the University of the Free State, Faculty of Theology since 2002. With ISSN 1015-8758 and E-ISSN 2309-9089, this journal serves as a vital platform for scholarly discourse in the field of Religious Studies. Hailing from South Africa, it has achieved a 2023 Scopus rank of #298 out of 644 within its category, placing it in the 53rd percentile and Q2 quartile—a testament to its reputable standing in academic circles. Acta Theologica aims to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and publish innovative research that addresses contemporary theological issues, providing valuable insights to researchers, professionals, and students alike. With an ever-growing repository of articles accessible to the global academic community, this journal exemplifies the commitment to advancing theological scholarship and enhancing public understanding of religious phenomena.

INTERPRETATION-A JOURNAL OF BIBLE AND THEOLOGY

Fostering a vibrant community of theological inquiry.
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INCISSN: 0020-9643Frequency: 4 issues/year

INTERPRETATION: A JOURNAL OF BIBLE AND THEOLOGY is a premier academic journal published by SAGE Publications Inc, dedicated to advancing the scholarship in the fields of Bible and theological studies. With an ISSN of 0020-9643 and an E-ISSN of 2159-340X, this journal has established itself as a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike, particularly noted for its high ranking in the 2023 category quartiles as Q1 in Religious Studies. The journal consistently ranks #101 out of 644 in Scopus, highlighting its significant impact and wide-reaching influence within the academic community. Since its inception, spanning converged years from 1965 to 1966, 1998, and currently from 2002 to 2024, it has presented a wealth of innovative research, critical reviews, and theological discourse. Although it operates under a subscription model, the depth and rigor of published articles make it an indispensable platform for those engaging seriously with theological inquiry. The journal is headquartered in Thousand Oaks, California, and continues to serve as a cornerstone for deepening understanding and scholarship in religious studies.

ZEITSCHRIFT FUR THEOLOGIE UND KIRCHE

Advancing theological discourse with scholarly rigor.
Publisher: J C B MOHRISSN: 0044-3549Frequency: 4 issues/year

ZEITSCHRIFT FUR THEOLOGIE UND KIRCHE is a distinguished academic journal published by J C B MOHR, renowned for contributing to the field of Religious Studies. With its ISSN 0044-3549 and E-ISSN 1868-7377, this journal has been serving scholars and practitioners since its first publication in 2002 and continues to be relevant through 2024. The journal holds a Q2 ranking in the 2023 category of Religious Studies, placing it in the top half of its field, and it is positioned at rank #414 out of 644 in Scopus's Arts and Humanities rankings, highlighting its importance and growing influence in the academic community. Although the journal is not open access, it features a variety of scholarly articles that foster discourse and advancements in theology and ecclesiastical research. Researchers and students alike will find an invaluable resource in ZEITSCHRIFT FUR THEOLOGIE UND KIRCHE, where innovative theological thought meets rigorous academic examination in an accessible format.

Internationale Katholische Zeitschrift Communio

Nurturing the Catholic Intellectual Tradition
Publisher: SCHWABENVERLAG AGISSN: 1439-6165Frequency: 6 issues/year

Internationale Katholische Zeitschrift Communio, published by SCHWABENVERLAG AG, is a prominent journal in the field of Catholic theology and philosophy, dedicated to fostering deep scholarly engagement with contemporary religious questions. Renowned for its rigorous academic standards, the journal serves as a vital platform for theologians, philosophers, and scholars interested in exploring Catholic thought and its relevance in today's world. Although it is not an open-access journal, Communio offers high-quality peer-reviewed articles that enrich the discourse within the theological community. With its roots firmly in the heart of Germany, the journal not only provides insightful analyses and interpretations but also promotes dialogue among diverse perspectives, making it an essential resource for researchers, students, and professionals dedicated to understanding and advancing the Catholic intellectual tradition.