Religion as a study discipline

The belief in Powers that control human fate is called Religion. In general terms we can say Religion is the human pursuit for understanding the sacred or holy. Religion, which is completely a human activity, can be expressed in thought (logical term), in action (realistic term) and in fellowship (shared term).  The multifaceted religious lexis including stories, myths, literature, histories, rituals, doctrines, ethical values, literature, poetry, and institutional developments of many traditions both from past and present encompasses the subject matter for the formal study of religion.
The religion that we study through different institutions do not advocate for any particular religion rather it teaches us about the evolution of the particular religion and how a religion made impact on society and the role of society in making up of a given religion. The systematic study of religion helps us in enriching our theological views.  Like many other academic subjects of study Religion also has many sub fields. Following are mentioned some most important sub fields of religion.  

History and Phenomenology of Religions- These are cross-cultural courses and examine religious statistics, from different customs. These courses evaluate, categorize, recognize and compare various types of religious activities like rituals and uses of holy text.

Bible- these are survey courses on the Bible or particular segments or books on the Bible. Latest methods of literary, historical, and theological investigation are taken in use in study of these courses.

History- These courses teaches about development of particular religions over time. Courses like Church History or History of Islam are taught under Representative courses category.

Theology – These courses teaches doctrine of religions.

Ethics- Religious suppositions and morals applied for such suppositions and connection between them is delivered under this category.

Religion & Culture- Any religion is practiced within a broader section of human society, by which they are made and under which they are flourishing. Courses in this category teach relation of religion to literature, politics, economics and science & technology etc. 

World Religions – Under this category various courses are taught like Hindutva, Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, and Jainism etc. The focus is mainly given on understanding of each religion in its own terms.

Allied Fields- Besides above discussed courses on religion there also exist many other courses like Philosophy of Religion, Psychology of Religion, Sociology of Religion etc. These courses are taught world wide through different educational programs.
Religion as an academic area of study finds solace under Humanities discipline. Religion has been and is an indispensable part of human culture. Thus, a knowledgeable person should have an affinity with this subject. Furthermore, the study of religion is a method to make sure that issues and the value of meaning are well thought-out in the itinerary of an individual’s education and life. The study of religion do not make student religious rather it makes them more judgmental in matter concerning with religions. The student of religious studies develops qualities in them like Analytical & Critical Skills, General Problem Solving, Communication Skills, and leadership qualities to name a few. 

In Indian School Curriculum Religious studies are available right from school level education. Various religions are taught like Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, etc. Religious lessons also finds place sometimes in literature books or social studies. Universities offer graduate and post graduate degree programs through different departments. Religious scholars, the people who study religions make integral part of society. The services of a religious scholar are sought by various public and private agencies.