MA Abrahamic Religions

Programme Convenor:  Mr Ahmad Achtar

Full Programme Specification

Brief description of this programme

The programme is distinguished by its focus on the contemporary religious thought of the three Abrahamic Religions especially their theological responses to the challenge of modernity and their engagement with each other. It examines the theoretical encounter with modernity and the  various issues - political, philosophical and theological - which arise for these religions as a result of such an encounter. Among the issues that will be examined are: philosophical and theological discourses, contemporary interpretation of scripture & scriptural reasoning, morality and law, contemporary spirituality, politics and secularisation, gender relations, fundamentalism, interfaith engagement & related documents (such as Nostra Aetate and Common word) and religious pluralism.  Thus, the programme will enable the participants to acquire a solid academic background in the contemporary trends within the three religions and will prepare them to engage in inter-faith dialogue. Furthermore, the degree will be taught by members of the three faiths, thus giving an insider account of each faith. Academic rigour will be central but this degree will also foster a sense of empathy and understanding of the traditions and the extent to which closer dialogue between them is possible.