It was also notable for being the first English-language journal focused on the subject of traditional studies and comparative religion.

The journal was established in 1963 by Francis Clive-Ross, who also served as editor-in-chief and publisher.

Perennialist author William Stoddart also served as an assistant editor for many years.

Jacob Needleman, editor of The Penguin Metaphysical Library, published a collection of essays from Studies in Comparative Religion under the title "The Sword of Gnosis".

The journal ceased publication in 1987 and the articles were unavailable until 2007, when World Wisdom launched a free on-line archive.