The Department of the History of Religions is a scholarly field that analyses all religions and religious systems — from their origins to the present day — in an objective and comparative manner. In this context, 'religions' refers to the subject matter of the field, while 'history' indicates its methodological approach. As well as religions themselves, the discipline investigates belief systems, sacred texts, religious rituals, encounters between religions, and the social and cultural effects of religious life.

It also examines how religions have interacted with culture, ideology and philosophical thought over time. In doing so, it provides a valuable intellectual framework for understanding religious and cultural diversity, encouraging students to think beyond disciplinary boundaries.