That book was followed by a flurry of literature on the so-called "death of God" theology (if "theology" it was, for I would call it "atheology"). Prayers and sacrificial offerings are usually directed toward secondary divinities, who are intermediaries between the human and sacred realms. GAZETTE: What allows African indigenous religions to be so accommodating? (+1) 202-419-4372 | Media Inquiries.
How Africa Is Changing Faith Around the World The editor of The Christian Century has given me an undeserved privilege in asking me to contribute some reflections on "How My Mind Has Changed" in the course of the past decade. But Gods dealings with the African people are recorded, nevertheless, in living form -- oral communication, rituals, symbols, ceremonies, community faith. African spirituality simply acknowledges that beliefs and practices touch on and inform every facet of human life, and therefore African religion cannot be separated from the everyday or mundane.. Humans are spirits who inhabit the visible world. It conducts public opinion polling, demographic research, media content analysis and other empirical social science research. Nevertheless, since 1900, Christians in Africa have grown from approximately 7 million to over 450 million today. A conference of mainly African theologians, held in Ghana in December 1977, said in its final communiqu: "The God of history speaks to all peoples in particular ways. GAZETTE: What is the state of indigenous African religions today? I am tantalized by the fact that my vision cannot cope with that horizon. But I have discovered that there is also the fundamental factor of African religion, without which this phenomenal expansion of Christianity would not be a reality. It is a subsidiary of The Pew Charitable Trusts. Our editors will review what youve submitted and determine whether to revise the article. In this case, so-called "salvation history" must widen its outreach in order to embrace the horizons of other peoples histories. For myself, I negotiate between my Yoruba and Christian identity by, for example, affirming those aspects of African culture that promote good life and communal human welfare. (back to text), 3 Nigerias 2006 census did not ask about religious affiliation, and recent estimates of the numbers of Muslims and Christians in the country vary. What the data says about gun deaths in the U.S. Anthropologica is published for CASCA by University of Toronto Press. Omissions? It includes Somalia, Ethiopia, Eritrea and Djibouti. Nevertheless, I am convinced that the World Council of Churches is a great witness of the Christian response to the prayer of our Lord that we may all be one. While every effort has been made to follow citation style rules, there may be some discrepancies. Corrections? %%EOF It is in this complex of religiosity that the preaching of the gospel makes sense; it is this preparedness that has undergirded the spreading of the gospel like wildfire among African societies which had hitherto followed and practiced traditional religion. Oral tradition says the first Muslims appeared while the prophet Mohammed was. Some African diasporans are returning to the continent to reconnect with their ancestral traditions, and they are encouraging and organizing the local African communities to reclaim this heritage. I cannot claim that I have witnessed much progress in that quest at the organizational level, but perhaps I had expected too much. The statistical expansion of the Christian faith in Africa in this century is one of the considerations that led me back to the issue of its relation with African religion. At many points I see intriguing parallels between the biblical record and African religiosity. He went on to conduct some of the most significant research on African religions in decades. In 1988 the society changed its name to the Canadian Anthropology Society to clarify its identity and emphasize its role as an anthropology association. Updates? OLUPONA: Yes, and the pluralistic nature of African-tradition religion is one of the reasons for its success in the diaspora. (+1) 202-857-8562 | Fax African spirituality simply acknowledges that beliefs and practices touch on and inform every facet of human life, and therefore African religion cannot be separated from the everyday or mundane. Our editors will review what youve submitted and determine whether to revise the article. Ritual functionaries include priests, elders, rainmakers, diviners, and prophets. African scholars A magisterial historical synthesis of the formative period of African Christianity written by one of its foremost scholars. He sees the other faith as complementing and even adding spiritual potency to his own spiritual practice of constructing effective amulets. African immigrants and slaves worked to maintain traditional religious and social practices in their new surroundings. The introduced religions of Islam (in northern Africa) and Christianity (in southern Africa) are now the continents major religions, but traditional religions still play an important role, especially in the interior of sub-Saharan Africa. 0 But to the disappointment of those theological exporters, this fish was not attracted by the bait. In most countries surveyed, at least three-in-ten people believe in reincarnation, which may be related to traditional beliefs in ancestral spirits. Belief in the power of such objects is highest in Senegal (75%) and lowest in Rwanda (5%). OLUPONA: We would lose a worldview that has collectively sustained, enriched, and given meaning to a continent and numerous other societies for centuries through its epistemology, metaphysics, history, and practices. But for many Africans, religion can never be separated from all these. in social anthropology from Oxford University, is studying for a master of theological studies (M.T.S.) In five countries (Tanzania, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Senegal and Mali) majorities express this belief. But the basic truth seems to be that Gods revelation is not confined to the biblical record. Rituals are aimed at maintaining a harmonious relationship with cosmic powers, and many have associated myths that explain their significance. (+1) 202-857-8562 | Fax Read our research on: Congress | Economy | Gender, Side by side with their high levels of commitment to Christianity and Islam, many people in the countries surveyed retain beliefs and rituals that are characteristic of traditional African religions. Subscriptions are available to libraries and individuals who are not members of CASCA. In four countries (Chad, Guinea Bissau, Nigeria and Tanzania), the number of Christians and Muslims is more equally divided, with a ratio of less than two-to-one in either direction.2 The other countries surveyed are predominantly Christian with Muslim minorities of varying sizes. For example, in 14 of the 19 countries surveyed, more than three-in-ten people say they sometimes consult traditional healers when someone in their household is sick. In February 1974 a group of 120 anthropologists launched the Canadian Ethnology Society/socit canadienne d'ethnologie (CESCE), because they felt there was room for an association of anthropologists separate from the Canadian Sociology and Anthropology Association (CSAA) which was dominated by sociologists. In three of the countries surveyed (Djibouti, Mali and Senegal), Muslims clearly outnumber Christians. For example, followers can seek spiritual direction and relief from healers, medicine men and women, charms [adornments often worn to incur good luck], amulets [adornments often used to ward off evil], and diviners [spiritual advisers]. Ancestors can offer advice and bestow good fortune and honor to their living dependents, but they can also make demands, such as insisting that their shrines be properly maintained and propitiated. A belief in ancestors also testifies to the inclusive nature of traditional African spirituality by positing that deceased progenitors still play a role in the lives of their living descendants. 0000005005 00000 n
They write new content and verify and edit content received from contributors. The first and most intriguing topic that immediately engaged my attention was the thinking of African peoples about God. GAZETTE: What will Africa lose if it loses its African indigenous worldview? This is not an empty coincidence. All these spirits are believed to live in a mythic land called Ginen, a cosmic Africa. The God of the Christian Bible is understood to be the creator of both the universe and the spirits; the spirits were made by God to help him govern humanity and the natural world. It doesnt have a fixed creed, like in some forms of Christianity or Islam. This is in sharp contrast with the religious composition . No doubt there still remain much research and reflection to be done in order to work out a consistent theological understanding of the issues entailed here. In 1900 there were an estimated 9 million Christians (accounting for about 7 per cent of the population of Africa). African spirituality has always been able to adapt to change and allow itself to absorb the wisdom and views of other religions, much more than, for example, Christianity and Islam. Ancestors also serve as intermediaries (see ancestor worship). He must have been active among African peoples as he was among the Jewish people. They have also fostered a greater feeling of individual self-worth by acknowledging important milestones in ones life, including becoming an adult or an elder. x\u}4`P}E#(9q"%LCl'KLb)Sfgdq N
PDF Christianity and the African traditional religion(s): The postcolonial Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). Par consquent, Mbali-Dieu est la rponse crative des Biras une rencontre religieuse syncrtique. hb```b``g`a`.ef@ aV68+ +$.0t9$r8A2Or}6=<4. OLUPONA: If we lose traditional African religions, we would also lose or continue to seriously undermine the African practice of rites of passage such as the much cherished age-grade initiations, which have for so long integrated and bought Africans together under a common understanding, or worldview. They depended on the labor of enslaved Africans who often constituted the majority of the population in these areas and developed their own forms of cultural and religious autonomy Examples: plantation agriculture, the Carolinas (rice), Barbados (sugar), tobacco Colonial government <<6D546C3FADADB2110A00A09A6B9CFF7F>]/Prev 416812>> Diviners who go through a long educational and apprenticeship program hold the history, culture, and spiritual traditions of the African people. 1"7$X9Xyyyb GNpL!9I&mxo0++44cA@5c. mixing of Christianity and traditional African religions What were maroon communities? The council made me aware, perhaps even frightfully so, of the problems of our world.
Conflicts Between African Traditional Religion and Christianity in "The success of Christianity and Islam on the African continent in the last 100 years has been extraordinary, but it has been, unfortunately, at the expense of African indigenous religions," said Olupona. 0000005714 00000 n
Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). This interview has been edited for length and clarity. 43. <> Please refer to the appropriate style manual or other sources if you have any questions. Some people tried to involve Africa in the debate. Thus, Mbali-God is a creative response on the part of the Bira to the syncretic religious encounter. 0000015705 00000 n
My findings were used in teaching, but eventually I put them together in a book, Concepts of God in Africa, published by the British publisher SPCK (1970). There is no room to describe them, and I can mention only two or three of them briefly. Some scholars choose to call it the African Traditional Religion, while others prefer to name it the African traditional Religions. The primary goal and activity of Vodou is to sevi lwa (serve the spirits)to offer prayers and perform various devotional rites directed at God and particular spirits in return for health, protection, and favour. 0000002884 00000 n
An old African adage says: The sky is large enough for birds to fly around without one having to bump into the other.. I feel deeply the value of biblical studies in this exercise, and the contribution of biblical insights in this development. When this happens, then a passage such as Hebrews 1:1-3 rolls down like mighty waters, full of exciting possibilities of theological reflection. Jacob Olupona, professor of indigenous African religions at Harvard Divinity School and professor of African and African-American studies in Harvards Faculty of Arts and Sciences, recently sat down for an interview about his lifelong research on indigenous African religions. In these congregations, knowledge is passed on through a ritual of initiation (kanzo) in which the body becomes the site of spiritual transformation. (a) The Structures of African Traditional Religions: Sometimes it is a difficult task among scholars to choose a unanimous name for the religious traditions and beliefs of the African people. Dr. Mbiti is on the staff of the Ecumenical Institute at Bossey, Switzerland. Consequently, traditional Africans have different ideas on what role the ancestors play in the lives of living descendants. 0000001019 00000 n
In the 17th century a movement led by the German Protestant theologian George Calixtus aimed at reconciling the differences between the Protestants in Germany, but his efforts were disparaged by orthodox Christian leaders as syncretistic. Religion Online is designed to assist teachers, scholars and general seekers who are interested in exploring religious issues. But they used the names of the God who was and is already known by African peoples -- such as Mungu, Mulungu, Katonda, Ngai, Olodumare, Asis, Ruwa, Ruhanga, Jok, Modimo, Unkulunkulu and thousands more. It is the southern two-thirds of Africa (including Madagascar) which we can rightly call Christian Africa, as the northern one-third is Muslim Africa. X0#J++?U;_3_gmx9[F\"{,Um1yu 9
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African religions and corresponding beliefs and practices This approach is intended to shed further light on the problem of African cultural influence and . Updates?
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Awolawu and Depamu (1979) In contrast, witchcraft beliefs persist. And this witness deserves ones support through service and prayer. Corrections? Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree. interaction between the Christian churches and West African religious culture.
APUSH Unit 1 Flashcards | Quizlet Modernity has not put a total stop to its influence. Pew Research Center does not take policy positions. The Pew Forums survey found 52% of the population is Muslim. Theological development in Africa must inevitably grow within this religious setting. Additionally, I will not discourage, disparage, or try and convert those who practice their form of African indigenous religions. The book comprised ideas that I had gathered from 300 African peoples ("tribes" -- a term that today is sometimes used in derogatory ways).
Vodou | Definition, History, West African Vodun, & Facts Eating pattern tied to 24% reduction in cardiovascular, cancer mortality in people diagnosed with the chronic condition, HMS/Brigham study shows most advertised medicines little better than other treatment options. First, the association of traditional African religion with an other-worldly orientation may appear problematic, given the "pragmatic" basis of this religion. My doctoral studies in New Testament eschatology led me also to the field of Christology. The Church in Africa, 1450-1950. That is anathema to the fundamentalist faith movements that have been gaining momentum in recent decades. (I myself have consulted with several diviners for my research on specific academic topics regarding African culture and history; consequently, if we were to lose Africas diviners, we would also lose one of Africas best keepers and sources of African history and culture. L'interdiction de pratiquer le culte des anctres est l'unique domaine dans lequel la mission chrtienne a triomph de la vie religieuse traditionnelle des Biras. For terms and use, please refer to our Terms and Conditions In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Kenya and Uganda, between 10% and 15% of respondents are Muslim. The idea is that the traditional African practitioner who constructed that amulet believes in the efficacy of other faiths and religions; there is no conflict in his mind between his traditional African spirituality and another faith. Syncretistic movements in the Orient, such as Manichaeism (a dualistic religion founded by the 3rd-century-ce Iranian prophet Mani, who combined elements of Christianity, Zoroastrianism, and Buddhism) and Sikhism (a religion founded by the 15th16th-century Indian reformer Guru Nnak, who combined elements of Islam and Hinduism), also met with resistance from the prevailing religions of their respective areas. So I read on and on, and conducted field research to learn more and more. Corrections? Mozambique, Botswana and South Africa are the only countries surveyed where a significant number of people (roughly one-in-ten) describe their religion as atheist, agnostic or nothing in particular. In all the other countries, the figure is closer to zero. Anthropologica Moreover, the religions developed in the Americas impact Africa in that devotees of the African diaspora have significant influence on practices in Africa. African religions, Indigenous religions of the African continent. African diaspora religions, also described as Afro-American religions, are a number of related beliefs that developed in the Americas in various nations of the Caribbean, Latin America and the Southern United States. This rapid spreading of the Christian faith where people have been predominantly followers of African religion provokes interesting questions.
African Traditional Religion in the Context of Christian and Islamic Indigenous Religion (AIR) in Africa. Its aims were to encourage formal and informal dissemination of knowledge through an annual conference and publications; promote relations with other academic and professional associations, aboriginal groups, and governments; and publicize ethnological research and activities to further understanding of ethnological practices. Their history has a theological meaning. They constitute an important channel of the churchs prophetic witness today. It publishes a journal Anthropologica and has reclaimed the name of its former journal, Culture for its occasional online bulletin. African religions, Indigenous religions of the African continent. Copyright by The Christian Century Foundation; used by permission. 300 ce). It is a subsidiary of The Pew Charitable Trusts. The councils programs in response to these problems are impressive. One of the things these diaspora African religions testify to is the beauty of African religions to engage a devotee on many spiritual levels. (1981) and Ph.D. (1983) in the history of religions from Boston University. In the cities, local hierarchies of priestesses or priests (manbo and oungan), children of the spirits (ounsi), and ritual drummers (ountgi) comprise more formal societies or congregations (sosyete). Since Christianity and Islam spread across Africa, many people there have observed a mixture of religious practices. Olupona, professor of indigenous African religions at Harvard Divinity School and professor of African and African-American studies in Harvards Faculty of Arts and Sciences, recently sat down for an interview about his lifelong research on indigenous African religions. About Pew Research Center Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world. A follower of African diaspora religions has many choices in terms of seeking spiritual help or succor. Alternate titles: Vaudou, Vodun, Voodoo, Voudou, vodon, Elizabeth McAlister Associate Professor of Religion, Weslyan University. Y.91sC@o9sJL9@XMw`7\`1%nRjBS %U=a{N>. Spirit possession plays an important role in Afro-Haitian religion, as it does in many other world religions. GAZETTE: It sounds like African indigenous religions are dynamic, inclusive, and flexible. Regardless of the variation, it is still true that Nigeria has both the largest number of Muslims and the largest number of Christians in the region. They proclaimed the name of Jesus Christ. For over 200 years, Africans, largely from the west coast of Africa, were brought to the United States in the slave trade. For instance, the Yoruba religion has historically been centered in southwestern Nigeria, the Zulu religion in southern Africa, and the Igbo religion in southeastern Nigeria. A prominent European New Testament professor visited Makerere University and interviewed me on what I thought about the "death of God" discussion.
African religion has equipped people to listen to the gospel, to discover meaningful passages in the Bible, and to avoid unhealthy religious conflict. This number has since grown rapidly, to the point that in 1980 there are estimated to be 200 million Christians (or about 45 per cent of the population). For example, an African amulet might have inside of it a written verse from either the Koran or Christian Bible. While African Traditional religion (ATR) is paramount, it is the purpose of this article to suggest that I wont pray to an orisa, but I will affirm the importance of my connection with members of my age group. 0000002505 00000 n
But after braving that first blizzard in a land far from his native Nigeria, Olupona stuck it out and earned his Ph.D. Abstract. I want to make a pilgrimage into Christ. This bitter conflict has led to wanton destruction of lives and property, and this has become a source of great worry to the writers. But upon my return to work in Africa, and upon careful study of the religious background of our people, there emerged gradually the demand to examine this issue and to form my own judgment. While Islam and Christianity tend to be overtly resistant to adopting traditional African religious ideas or practices, indigenous African religions have always accommodated other beliefs. The theological horizon continues to expand. There is even a community deep in the American Bible Belt in Beaufort County, S.C., called Oyotunji Village that practices a type of African indigenous religion, which is a mixture of Yoruba and Ewe-Fon spiritual practices. The bottom line then is that Africans who still wholly practice African indigenous religions are only about 10 percent of the African population, a fraction of what it used to be only a century ago, when indigenous religions dominated most of the continent.
www.ej-theology.org Christianity and Indigenisation in Africa In this overpowering environment, one simply accepted this stand and looked at the world from its perspectives. (See the glossary for more information on juju. (+1) 202-419-4372 | Media Inquiries. He has researched and written about such diverse religious cultures as the Hare Krishnas, Zoroastrians, Shakers, and the Old Order Amish. Below is the article summary. The unseen world is populated by lwa (spirits), myst (mysteries), anvizib (the invisibles), zanj (angels), and the spirits of ancestors and the recently deceased. A semi-annual journal, it publishes peer-reviewed articles in both French and English devoted to social and cultural issues whether they are pre-historic, historic, contemporary, biological, linguistic, applied or theoretical in orientation. That would be a serious loss not only for Africans, but also for academics, researchers, writers, and general seekers of wisdom the world over. Many other familial feasts (for the sacred children, for the poor, for particular ancestors) as well as initiations and funerary rituals occur throughout the year.
The spirituality of Africa - Harvard Gazette Indigenous African practices tend to be strongest in the central states of Africa, but some form of their practices and beliefs can be found almost anywhere in Africa. The fusion of cultures that was effected by the conquest of Alexander the Great (4th century bce ), his successors, and the Roman Empire tended to bring together a variety of religious and philosophical views that resulted in a strong tendency toward religious syncretism.