Explain how a student of religion who may or may not have religious convictions would set about the examination of a religion with which they are unfamiliar?

The student of religion faces a number of challenges on embarking upon the close examination of any given religion. We firstly need to question and maybe even dismiss our own assumptions, prejudices and perhaps even attitudes, in order to gain the fullest picture of the religion we wish to study. There will also be the need to consult others and gather evidence in order to further our own understanding, and with such a variety of …

…approach the subject with an open mind and be prepared to accept and understand the beliefs of others. Web References: 1 - "Mary, mother of Jesus" A Dictionary of the Bible. W. R. F. Browning. Oxford University Press, 1997. Oxford Reference Online. Oxford University Press. Open University. 24 June 2004 http://www.oxfordreference.com/views/ENTRY.html?subview=Main&entry=t94.e1212 2 - http://www.orangenet.org/civilrights/parade.htm 3 - http://camlaw.rutgers.edu/publications/law-religion/