Christopher I. Lehrich, ed., On Teaching Religion: Essays by Jonathan Z. Smith (New York: Oxford University Press, 2013).

Abstract

Religion continues to play an important role in our contemporary world. In global affairs and politics, religion plays a major part in issues dealing with violence, peace, justice, and reconciliation. Such a significant phenomenon requires the right methodology for understanding its various dimensions, processes, and structures. The study of religion truly has an enduring dimension. The study of religion is intellectually stimulating because it provides a clue to the mystery of the other. It is one of the disciplines that ponders the boundary questions of life and death and of love and violence that constitute an integral part of the human condition. The work of Jonathan Z. Smith provides pioneering insights into the academic study of religion. His seminal thoughts and reflections on religious pluralism, religious studies, teaching, and transcendence provide a sound theoretical framework for dealing with these issues. This book is divided into thirteen chapters with a concluding essay by Christopher I. Le...