The study of religions and the dialogue of religions (Shûkyôgaku to shûkyôtaiwa)

Distinguishing between science of religions and dialogue of religions The purpose of this paper is to consider some of the ways in which the scientific study of religions1 might have implications for the continuing process of dialogue between religions. While the study of religions itself is a non-religious activity, the dialogue between religions, on the other hand, certainly is in some sense a religious activity. It involves the presentation and exchange of religious experiences and religious positions. It is possible for such dialogues to take place without reference to the study of religions. However it is possible that those involved in such dialogues might benefit from the perspectives opened up in the scientific study of religions. The present paper, based on a lecture given at Ôtani University in Kyôto, makes some suggestions in this direction