Judaism and Islam will be introduced as diverse traditions that, while sharing a common history, approach the divine in distinctive ways. Emphasis will be placed on the role of text and textual interpretation in both religions, with special attention given to the adaptations and innovations of these religions to American society and life in the United States.  Also, misperceptions and biases against​ Jewish and Islamic communities will be explored alongside wit everyday life for members of these religions.​

 Spencer Dew is an associate teaching professor in the departments of Comparative Studies and African American and African Studies at OSU.  He serves as short reviews editor for "Religious Studies Review," and is the author, most recently, of "The Aliites: Race and Law in the Religions of Noble Drew Ali,” the winner of the 2020 Raboteau Prize for Best Book in Africana Religions.