How to Teach That Which Cannot Be Taught: A Brief History Of Religious Education

Abstract

Starting in the Old Testament era, this article surveys traditions of religious education within the Judaeo-Christian setting. Home was the first and primary environment for teaching religious values among the ancient Hebrews. In particular, the father’s role in teaching sacred precepts and practices to their sons was significant. Little or no data is available on the role of religion in formal education in ancient Judah or Israel. In the Christian era, development started with  unorganised training of converts and continued with large church operated school systems. This history includes several stages; at first the emphasis was on learning Christian doctrines as confessions and moral guidelines for life. As rituals and ceremonies were defined, they became more important, even at the expense of dogmas.  The rise of church operated schools is also outlined, along with the impact of secularism on government controlled educational standards. How to teach that which cannot be taught? is a question stemming from the time of the Protestant Reformation. It shows human inadequacy in trying to do what is God’s work. History does not answer this question; which may indicate that the final and best way of teaching Christian values has not been found yet.