Last semester I took a course in Religious Journalism and my professor reminded the class everyday that the class was not a religious study class but a class where you learn about all religions to expand you knowledge and minimize ignorance. I myself had attended a religious institution when I was younger and also learn about various religions throughout my academic years. Over that time I personally understood some of the differences between Theology and Religious Study.
Religious study is completely on another level when it is placed next to Theology. Religious study involves the basics of religions. Religious study does not involve any proselytizing. It is implemented in most schools so that students can understand the basic principles of various religions. Religious studies present a general overview of religions through more of a historical and cultural side rather than a personal connection.
Theology comes from the Greek terms “theos” and “logos” and means the study of God . It helps the person understand the religion that they choose to became a theologian in. It is about reasoning and understanding of religion and how it works. In theology from what I learned in class, it uses various mediums such as historical context, philosophical context, doctrinal and through many other ways. Theology is used to connect deeply with people and God.
