An Introduction to the Study of Comparative Religion

by Frank Byron Jevons

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Genres: Religion

312 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1908

About the author

Frank Byron Jevons (1858–1936) was a polymath, academic and administrator of Durham University. He was educated at Nottingham High School and Wadham College, Oxford and appointed a lecturer in Classics at Durham in 1882. He was the first Censor of St Cuthbert's Society from 1892 until 1897. In 1897 he was appointed as Master of Hatfield College where he remained until 1922. He also served as Vice-Chancellor of the university between 1910 and 1912 and Pro Vice-Chancellor between 1912 and 1914 and 1916 to 1921.

Reviews

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although clearly written by a Christian who believes Christianity is the most perfect of religions (as if there were such perfection to be had), this is still a well-written piece; Even though the author clearly misunderstands portions of other religions (like magick *which this reader believes can be a religious practise*, animism, and Buddhist philosophies) , he states them (his conclusions) with reason and logic and has clearly read up on views which do not agree with his own. Other religions and practices are referred to as inferior, their adherents as savage, and their acts as antisocial or just plain non-religious .... However, his bias and misunderstandings (in and of itself) are stated in such a tactful way that they still remain insightful and reasonable enough to contribute to any persons' study of comparative religion. Still a recommended read!

"The truth and the good inherent in all forms of religion is that, in all, man seeks after God. The finality of Christianity lies in the fact that it reveals the God for whom man seeks."

The above quote (from the final section) demonstrates how he may, indeed, see value in most religion.....but that (to him) Christianity contains the "true God" and the most preferable way to achieve communion with said God.