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The systematic study of religions is known as Theology. The term originates from the Greek words Theos (meaning God) and Logos (meaning study or discourse). Theology is a broad academic discipline that examines the nature of God, religious beliefs, moral values, and the relationship between humanity and the divine. It is studied in religious seminaries, universities, and research institutions worldwide.
In Islam, although the term “Theology” is generally Western, the concept closely relates to Ilm al-Kalam (Islamic scholastic theology), which involves the rational and philosophical discussion of Islamic beliefs. Early Muslim scholars like Imam Abu Hanifa, Imam al-Ghazali, and Fakhr al-Din al-Razi contributed significantly to theological thought in the Muslim world.
Theology is not limited to a single religion. For example:
Christian Theology studies the Bible, Church history, and the nature of Jesus.
Islamic Theology focuses on the Qur’an, Hadith, Tawheed (oneness of Allah), prophethood, and the afterlife.
Hindu Theology examines concepts like Dharma, Karma, and Moksha.
The primary objectives of theology include:
Understanding and explaining religious beliefs.
Defending faith against misconceptions.
Guiding ethical and moral behavior based on divine revelation.
It differs from Religious Studies, which is more comparative and anthropological, while theology often takes a faith-based perspective.
In the Qur’an, believers are encouraged to reflect deeply on the signs of Allah in creation and revelation (Surah Al-Imran 3:190-191). This reflection forms a basis for theological thought, as it seeks to connect reason with revelation.
Therefore, the correct answer is Theology, as it universally denotes the study of God and religion in academic and faith contexts.
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