Coexistence of Both Religion and History

IDH 3100

26 July 2011

Coexistence of Both Religion and History

Historical fact and religious truth exclusively deal with fundamentally separate aspects of human experience and therefore can coexist peacefully. Historical point of view and religious interpretations serve entirely different functions in society, written with a different purpose and therefore do not interfere with one other. In other words, a religious view cannot be historic just as a historic view cannot be religious. Human experiences, traditions, morals and beliefs are based on various religious backgrounds and not on their interpretations of historic studies. Yet, both historic and religious works are vital in understanding the fundamental tools which have shaped today’s societies. It is not the belief in one or the other that establishes ones’ religious affiliation, faith cannot be based on science or history, just as religion itself cannot be viewed through a historic lens. Religion and history are extremely separate and therefore cannot be combined or excluded. Both history and religion represent distinct ways of approaching experience, wherein history is descriptive while religion is prescriptive. Changing such fundamental roles of history and religion would lead to improperly ascribing properties to the natural world. The study of historic events should not conflict with ones’ belief system, and thus it should not challenge ones’ beliefs. History and religion occupy “two separate realms of human experience. Demanding that they be combined detracts from the glory of each” (Aageson ). A conflict between history and religion appears impossible, for history only ascertain what is and not what should be, it justifies facts and examines the relationship between details. Religion on the other hand deals with human lore and understanding. Webster dictionary defines history as “a chronological record of significant events often including an explanation of their causes.” History can be interpreted and proved to be valid or invalid; it is compatible and backed by findings, documentary evidence, and various sources. It is a study of the period of time in which nation states become the dominant form of cognitively organizing the world. Historic circumstances shaped by political and social influences, provide a glimpse into the past allowing us to explore some of the most revolutionary ideas, understanding the earliest documented era of civilization. Interpreting ancient text in a secular, academic environment allows one to look at such texts as the Hebrew Bible as a primary source. “When approached from an academic, rather than devotional,