Numen: International Review for the History of Religions – Theology Journal Guide for Researchers

Why Researchers Choose Numen: International Review for the History of Religions for High-Impact Publications

Numen: International Review for the History of Religions stands as a cornerstone in the field of theology and religious studies, offering scholars a platform to engage with the deepest questions of faith, ritual, and cultural evolution. Published by Brill since 1954, this quarterly journal has built a reputation for rigorous scholarship that bridges historical analysis with contemporary interpretations. Researchers are drawn to Numen for its commitment to interdisciplinary approaches, encompassing everything from ancient mythologies to modern religious movements. The journal's editorial team ensures that each article undergoes meticulous peer review, fostering debates that influence global academic discourse.

With a focus on the history of religions, Numen publishes original research that challenges conventional narratives and introduces innovative methodologies. Its pages feature contributions from leading experts worldwide, making it an essential resource for theologians, historians, and anthropologists. The journal's prestige is underscored by its inclusion in major indexing services, which amplify the reach of published works. For early-career researchers, submitting to Numen represents an opportunity to align with a publication known for its enduring impact.

Whether exploring the intersections of religion and society or delving into comparative studies, Numen provides the intellectual space needed for groundbreaking work. Its hybrid publication model allows authors to choose between traditional subscription access and open access options, maximizing dissemination. As the field of theology evolves, Numen remains at the forefront, inviting submissions that push boundaries and contribute to lasting scholarly conversations. To explore theology faculty positions that could support your research, visit theology faculty positions.

Overview & History

Founded in 1954 by the International Association for the History of Religions, Numen: International Review for the History of Religions has evolved into a vital outlet for scholarly inquiry into religious phenomena across time and cultures. Initially launched to promote comparative studies, the journal quickly gained acclaim for its comprehensive coverage of religious histories from antiquity to the present. Under Brill's stewardship since its inception, Numen has maintained a tradition of excellence, publishing four issues annually that total around 600 pages of content.

The journal's history reflects broader shifts in religious studies, from phenomenological approaches in its early years to more critical and postcolonial perspectives today. Key milestones include special issues on topics like indigenous religions and secularization, which have shaped academic agendas. Today, Numen continues to honor its founding mission while adapting to digital scholarship, offering online-first publications to accelerate access.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

Numen encompasses a broad spectrum of topics within the history of religions, emphasizing empirical and theoretical analyses. Its scope includes the study of religious texts, practices, institutions, and their socio-cultural contexts. The journal welcomes articles on all world religions, from Abrahamic traditions to Asian and indigenous faiths.

Key Journal Metrics

Numen demonstrates solid performance in academic metrics, reflecting its influence in theology and related fields. These indicators help researchers evaluate its suitability for impactful publications.

Indexing and Abstracting

Numen is widely indexed, ensuring visibility for authors' work. It appears in Arts & Humanities Citation Index (Clarivate), Scopus, and ATLA Religion Database. Additional coverage includes Religious and Theological Abstracts and the International Bibliography of the Social Sciences. These services facilitate citations and downloads, enhancing research impact. For open access options, check the official journal homepage.

Publication Model and Fees

As a hybrid journal, Numen offers both subscription-based and open access publishing. Subscription access is available through Brill's platform, while authors can opt for gold open access by paying an Article Processing Charge (APC) of €2,500 (excluding taxes). No fees apply for non-OA submissions. The model supports wide dissemination, with all content archived in Portico for long-term preservation. Sherpa/RoMEO classifies Numen as green for self-archiving, allowing preprint deposits.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Submissions are handled via Brill's Editorial Manager system. Authors must prepare manuscripts in English, following the journal's style guide based on Chicago Manual of Style. Articles should be 8,000-10,000 words, with abstracts and keywords required. Double-blind peer review ensures fairness, typically involving 2-3 reviewers. Guidelines emphasize originality and methodological rigor. Access the portal at Numen submission portal. For PhD programs in religious studies, see religious studies PhD programs.

Editorial Board Highlights

The editorial board comprises distinguished scholars from top institutions. Editor-in-Chief Gregory D. Alles (McDaniel College, USA) oversees content with expertise in comparative religion. Associate editors include Olav Hammer (University of Southern Denmark) and Kocku von Stuckrad (University of Groningen, Netherlands), bringing diverse perspectives. International members from Europe, Asia, and North America ensure global representation, fostering inclusive scholarship.

Why Publish in Numen: International Review for the History of Religions?

Publishing in Numen elevates a researcher's profile due to its established prestige and interdisciplinary audience. The journal's focus on historical depth attracts citations from across humanities fields. Authors benefit from Brill's marketing, including alerts and social media promotion. For career advancement, see how publications like this align with rate my professor evaluations in theology departments. Its metrics, though modest, signify quality in a niche field, making it ideal for specialized work.

Comparison with Similar Journals

Numen holds its own against peers in religious studies, offering unique historical emphasis.

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

To succeed with Numen submissions, align your work with its historical focus and ensure robust methodology. Engage with recent issues for trends, and seek feedback before submitting. Highlight interdisciplinary angles to appeal to the board. Track your submission status online, and prepare for revisions based on reviewer insights. For academic planning, consult the academic calendar. Additional tips include using clear abstracts and adhering to word limits. Explore higher ed jobs in theology via higher ed jobs in theology. Finally, network at conferences to build connections that support your publication goals.