REL 307 – World Religious Traditions: East and West

Assessment 2: Thematic Comparative Essay on Text and Practice

REL 307 at many universities functions as an advanced survey that revisits Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism with a stronger emphasis on primary texts, argument, and focused comparison. Assessment 2 is designed as a 2026-ready assignment brief aligned with current practices in Religious Studies programmes. The task asks students to compare how one theme appears in both sacred texts and lived practices across two traditions using a focused and manageable set of sources.

Sample Answer Notes (for Guidance)

Many strong REL 307 essays begin with a clear claim such as “Ideas about hospitality in the Qur’an and the Bhagavad Gita shape concrete practices of almsgiving and guest care in Muslim and Hindu communities, yet they arise from different narratives about God, self, and neighbour.” A focused comparison works best when the writer selects two or three key passages, explains them clearly, and connects them to practices such as zakat, iftar meals, temple offerings, or communal feasts. Essays that integrate text and practice throughout the discussion tend to demonstrate deeper understanding and avoid treating religions as static systems.Follow-up Academic Context

Comparative, theme-based essays of approximately 2,000 words are widely used in upper-level Religious Studies courses because they allow students to demonstrate both analytical depth and control of sources within a manageable scope. These assignments emphasise structured comparison, engagement with primary texts, and the integration of scholarly interpretation. They also provide a clear framework for assessing argument, methodology, and critical thinking in a consistent and transparent manner across cohorts.

Assessment Overview

• Course code/title: REL 307 – World Religious Traditions: East and West

• Assessment label: Assessment 2 – Thematic Comparative Essay on Text and Practice

• Type: Individual argumentative essay

• Length: 2,000–2,500 words (excluding references)

• Weighting: 30% of final course grade

• Timing: Weeks 7–9 of semester

• Submission: Word document (.docx) via LMS

• Citation style: Chicago or APA

Assessment Aim

Students will produce a structured comparative essay that traces a single theme across primary texts and lived practices in two religious traditions. The goal is to demonstrate accurate description, critical comparison, and engagement with academic scholarship.

Task Instructions

1. Choose Two Traditions

1. Select two traditions from the following:

   • Judaism

   • Islam

   • Hinduism

   • Buddhism

2. Ensure sufficient lecture and reading coverage for both.

2. Choose One Comparative Theme

1. Select one shared theme, such as:

   • Suffering and the human problem

   • Hospitality and the stranger

   • Prayer and meditation

   • Food, fasting, and feasting

   • Violence and non-violence

2. Alternative themes must be approved.

3. Sources

1. Use at minimum:

   • Two primary texts

   • Two textbook chapters

   • Two peer-reviewed scholarly sources

2. Practitioner sources may supplement but not replace academic sources.

4. Essay Question

How do your chosen traditions interpret and practice the selected theme in both text and lived experience, and what does comparison reveal about their understanding of the human condition and the sacred?

Suggested Structure

Section 1: Introduction (250–300 words)

1. Identify traditions and theme

2. Present a clear thesis

Section 2: Tradition A – Text and Practice (600–750 words)

1. Analyse key primary texts

2. Describe related practices

3. Interpret using academic sources

Section 3: Tradition B – Text and Practice (600–750 words)

1. Repeat with comparable depth

2. Ensure thematic relevance

Section 4: Comparative Analysis (400–500 words)

1. Identify similarities and differences

2. Explain their significance

Section 5: Methodological Reflection (200–250 words)

1. Reflect on insights gained

2. Identify one limitation

Formal Requirements

• 2,000–2,500 words

• Double-spaced, 12 pt font

• Consistent citation style

• Academic integrity required

Marking Rubric (100 marks)

Study bay notes

Scholarly work in comparative religion emphasises that themes such as suffering, ethics, and ritual practice cannot be understood in isolation from their textual and social contexts. By engaging closely with primary sources and examining how they are interpreted within communities, students can develop a more nuanced understanding of how religious meaning is constructed and lived in practice, which remains a central concern in contemporary Religious Studies scholarship (Flood, 2019).

 Academic References

• Brodd, J. et al. (2019). Invitation to World Religions. Oxford University Press.

• Flood, G. (2019). The Importance of Religion. Wiley Blackwell.

• Clooney, F. X. (2010). Comparative Theology. Wiley Blackwell.

• Esposito, J. L. et al. (2018). World Religions Today. Oxford University Press.

• Smart, N. (1998). The World’s Religions. Cambridge University Press.

• Orsi, R. A. (2016). History and Presence. Harvard University Press.

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Assignment _

Course: REL 307 – World Religious Traditions: East and West
Upcoming Assessment: Short Research Presentation – Interpreting Sacred Texts

Description:
In the following weeks, students will typically complete a short research presentation focused on interpreting a single primary text within its historical and cultural context. This task builds on the comparative essay by narrowing the focus to close textual analysis and scholarly interpretation. Students are expected to engage with academic sources, present a clear argument, and respond to questions from peers. The assignment strengthens oral communication skills and prepares students for more advanced research projects later in the course.