Study of Tiele’s approach to the study of religion

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Professor, Department of Religion and Comparative Mysticism, University of Tehran

Abstract

This article, using a descriptive-analytical method, studies the opinions and scientific approach of the Dutch theologian Tiele. Along with Max Müller, Tiele is called the founder of the science of religion. Like Müller, he was interested in general research about religion in its various aspects. According to him, religion is based on the relationship between humans and superhuman beings. He considers religion as self- knowledge, to the extent that he transcends and elevates himself from the limited and transitory limit. The science of religion establishes the fact that the belief that God is superior to humanity is common to all religions. There is a kind of deep relationship between the outside (principles of beliefs and rituals) and the inside (inner belief/faith) of religion. He highlighted the inner dimension of religion (religiosity) at the expense of its outer dimension (belief systems, myths, rituals, religious institutions, etc.) and considered the reality of religion to be personal and psychological. The place of religion should be sought in the deepest part of the human soul. He claims that religion is basically a psychological phenomenon; And its essence is "piety". Religious need is the most powerful and deepest human need. He believes that the origin of religion is in the feeling of infinity inside.

Keywords

References

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Comparative Study of Religions and Mysticism
Volume 8, Issue 2
September 2024
Pages 79-106

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History

  • Receive Date: 04 March 2024
  • Revise Date: 27 June 2024
  • Accept Date: 30 September 2024

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