African Christian Theology Brewed from within the fountain of Chirumhanzu: Theology of “Being” (Unhu)

Introduction

African Liberation Theology

Itis a significant area of study within African theology, which emerged in the 1960s as a response to the socio-political and economic conditions in Africa. It seeks to address issues of liberation, justice, and solidarity, particularly in the context of the African continent. African Liberation Theology highlights the importance of African culture, spirituality, and tradition in theological discourse, and emphasizes the need for an African perspective in the interpretation and application of Christian teachings. This approach challenges the dominant Eurocentric interpretations of theology and provides a unique perspective on the relationship between religion, culture, and social justice in Africa

The purpose of the paper is to explore the relationship between revealed faith and innate reason in the context of African Liberation Theology from a Catholic perspective, with a focus on the contributions of John Mbiti. The paper aims to provide an overview of the topic and explain the significance of African Liberation Theology, as well as the role of revealed faith and innate reason in African theology. The paper will also discuss the historical and theological context in which African Liberation Theology emerged, and how African theologians have interpreted and applied revealed faith and innate reason in their work. By analyzing the relationship between revealed faith and innate reason, the paper will show how this relationship has shaped African theology and its relevance for the contemporary world.

African Liberation Theology emerged in the context of social, economic, and political conditions in Africa that were characterized by oppression and exploitation. Many African nations had been colonized by European powers, which had created a system of economic and political domination that was maintained by force and violence. This system created deep inequalities between Europeans and Africans, with the latter often being relegated to second-class citizenship in their own countries. In addition, many African nations had been forced to adopt Christianity as a result of colonization, but this often meant adopting a European version of the faith that did not speak to the realities of African life. As a result, African theologians began to develop a theology that was grounded in the experiences of African people and that addressed their struggles for liberation and justice. The role of revealed faith and innate reason in this theology was significant, as it allowed theologians to draw on both the Christian tradition and African cultural resources to develop a new vision of the faith that was relevant to the African context.

The role of revealed faith and innate reason is significant in African theology and has played a crucial role in the emergence of African Liberation Theology. In African theology, revealed faith refers to the knowledge of God that is received through divine revelation. It is seen as a central part of the African religious experience and is the foundation of African Christian theology. Innate reason, on the other hand, refers to the ability to reason and understand the world around us, which is seen as a gift from God.

The combination of revealed faith and innate reason in African theology has led to the emergence of African Liberation Theology, which seeks to address the social, political, and economic issues facing the African continent. African theologians such as John Mbiti have emphasized the importance of both revealed faith and innate reason in their work.

Mbiti’s work, in particular, highlights the role of revealed faith in African theology. He argues that the African religious experience is based on the belief in a Supreme Being who communicates with humanity through various means, including dreams, visions, and revelations. Mbiti’s focus on the importance of revealed faith has had a significant impact on African Christian theology, which seeks to incorporate the African religious experience into its teachings.

At the same time, Mbiti has also emphasized the importance of innate reason in African theology. He argues that reason is a key component of the African religious experience, and that Africans have always used reason to understand the world around them. This emphasis on reason has led to the development of African Christian theology that is contextualized and relevant to the African context.

The combination of revealed faith and innate reason in African theology has allowed African theologians to address issues such as colonialism, poverty, and social injustice. African Liberation Theology has emerged as a response to these issues, emphasizing the importance of social justice, human dignity, and the struggle for liberation. It seeks to empower the oppressed and marginalized, and to challenge the structures of power and domination that exist in African societies.

In conclusion, the role of revealed faith and innate reason is significant in African theology, and has played a crucial role in the emergence of African Liberation Theology. African theologians such as John Mbiti have emphasized the importance of both revealed faith and innate reason in their work, allowing them to address the pressing issues facing the African continent.

In African Liberation Theology, reason is understood as an innate capacity for discernment and decision-making that is rooted in the African cultural and religious heritage. Reason is seen as an integral part of the African worldview and is closely linked to the concept of ubuntu, which emphasizes the interconnectedness and interdependence of all individuals and the importance of community in decision-making.

African theologians have drawn on the concept of reason to engage with contemporary issues such as liberation, justice, and solidarity. They argue that reason can be used to challenge oppressive structures and promote social transformation. Reason is seen as a tool for critical reflection, which can be used to identify the root causes of social problems and to develop strategies for addressing them.

One of the key features of the African understanding of reason is its emphasis on the importance of tradition. African theologians argue that reason must be grounded in the cultural and religious traditions of the African people, which provide a rich source of wisdom and knowledge. They argue that reason must be used in a way that is consistent with the values and principles of African culture, and that it must be informed by a deep respect for the traditions and practices of the African people.

The significance of the African understanding of reason for African Liberation Theology is that it provides a framework for engaging with the complex social, economic, and political issues that face African societies. It emphasizes the importance of critical reflection and creative problem-solving, and it encourages African theologians to draw on the rich resources of African culture and tradition in their work.

In the contemporary world, the African understanding of reason and its significance in African Liberation Theology has important implications for the broader field of theology and for social and political movements around the world. It highlights the importance of cultural diversity and the need for theology to be grounded in the lived experiences of people from diverse cultural and social backgrounds. It also provides a powerful tool for challenging oppressive structures and promoting social justice and transformation.

African theology places great importance on scripture as a source of revealed faith. However, the interpretation and application of scripture is heavily influenced by the social, cultural, and historical context in which African theologians live and work. John Mbiti is a prominent African theologian who has made significant contributions to the discussion of scripture in African theology.

Mbiti emphasizes the importance of understanding scripture in its original context and language, but also acknowledges the need to interpret it in light of contemporary issues facing African societies. He argues that African theologians must engage in a “double listening” process, which involves listening to both the biblical text and the contemporary context in order to develop relevant and meaningful interpretations of scripture.

One of Mbiti’s significant contributions is his work on the role of scripture in African culture. He argues that African cultures have a rich tradition of oral storytelling, and that this tradition can inform and enrich the interpretation of scripture. Mbiti also highlights the importance of understanding the symbolism and metaphorical language used in scripture, which is often similar to the imagery used in African cultural traditions.

In terms of applying revealed faith to contemporary issues, Mbiti emphasizes the importance of the Christian message of love, justice, and peace. He argues that African theologians must work to promote these values in the face of social and political challenges such as poverty, conflict, and inequality.

Overall, Mbiti’s contributions demonstrate the significance of scripture in African theology, and the need for African theologians to engage in a contextual and culturally sensitive interpretation of scripture. His work highlights the role of African cultural traditions in shaping the interpretation of scripture, and the importance of applying revealed faith to contemporary issues in African societies.

In African Liberation Theology, reason is understood as a fundamental component of human experience, and as an important tool for engaging with contemporary issues. According to John S. Mbiti, a Kenyan theologian and philosopher, reason in African thought is closely linked to tradition, and is grounded in a sense of community and a shared cultural identity. This understanding of reason emphasizes the importance of dialogue and consensus-building in decision-making, and recognizes the role of intuition and emotion in human reasoning.

In the context of African Liberation Theology, reason is seen as an important tool for analyzing the social, economic, and political conditions that contribute to oppression and injustice. African theologians have used reason to critique colonialism, capitalism, and other forms of oppression, and to develop a vision of liberation that is rooted in African culture and values. For example, Mercy Amba Oduyoye, a Ghanaian theologian and feminist, has used reason to challenge patriarchal structures within African societies and to advocate for gender equality. Similarly, Emmanuel Martey, a Ghanaian theologian, has used reason to critique neocolonialism and to promote African economic self-sufficiency.

Overall, the African understanding of reason in African Liberation Theology emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, reflection, and analysis, as well as the value of community, tradition, and culture in shaping human reasoning.

The relationship between revealed faith and innate reason in African Liberation Theology has important implications for African theology and its relevance for the contemporary world.

Firstly, this relationship emphasizes the importance of integrating faith and reason in theological discourse. It rejects the notion that faith and reason are mutually exclusive and recognizes that they are complementary and necessary for a comprehensive understanding of the world. This view of the relationship between faith and reason can be seen as an alternative to the Western philosophical tradition that has often separated the two.

Secondly, the relationship between revealed faith and innate reason in African Liberation Theology emphasizes the importance of contextualization. African theologians have recognized that their theological discourse must be grounded in the African context, which includes an appreciation of the cultural and religious heritage of Africa. This approach has led to a more relevant and meaningful engagement with African realities and issues.

Thirdly, the relationship between revealed faith and innate reason in African Liberation Theology has implications for the African concept of liberation. This theology recognizes that liberation must be understood in a holistic sense, which includes not only political and economic liberation but also spiritual liberation. This view of liberation is relevant for the contemporary world, where many people still suffer from various forms of oppression and marginalization.

In summary, the relationship between revealed faith and innate reason in African Liberation Theology highlights the importance of an integrated and contextualized theological discourse. It recognizes the need for a comprehensive approach to understanding the world and the relevance of the African concept of liberation for the contemporary world.

Advocates of African Liberation Theology have responded to critiques and challenges in various ways. One common response has been to emphasize the contextuality of African theology and the need to develop a theology that is relevant to the African context. This has involved a shift away from Western theological categories and methods towards the use of African languages, symbols, and cultural expressions. African theologians have also sought to further develop African Liberation Theology by engaging with other liberation theologies, such as feminist and ecotheologies, and by exploring new areas of research, such as the relationship between theology and African literature or music.

Another response has been to address the issue of language and translation. Critics have argued that the use of Western theological terms and concepts in African Liberation Theology has limited its impact and relevance. Advocates have responded by calling for a more creative use of language that is both faithful to the Christian tradition and culturally sensitive to the African context. This has involved the development of new theological vocabularies and the use of African languages in theological discourse.

Advocates of African Liberation Theology have also sought to address the challenge of political oppression and social injustice in Africa. This has involved a commitment to the praxis of liberation, which seeks to bring about social and political change through action and reflection. African theologians have been involved in a range of activities, including community organizing, political activism, and advocacy work, in order to promote social justice and human rights in Africa.

In summary, advocates of African Liberation Theology have responded to critiques and challenges by emphasizing the contextuality of African theology, developing new theological vocabularies, engaging with other liberation theologies, and promoting the praxis of liberation. They have also sought to further develop this theology by exploring new areas of research and by addressing pressing social and political issues in Africa. The work of theologians like John S Mbiti has been crucial in this ongoing process of theological reflection and contextualization.

Timothy Mabwanda is a Zimbabwean theologian student; is contributing significantly to the development of African theology, particularly in the area of African inculturation theology. In his work, Mabwanda emphasizes the need for African theologians to develop a theology that is rooted in African culture and responsive to the needs of African people.

Mabwanda argues that African theology should be based on the principles of inculturation, which involves the integration of African culture and values into Christian theology. He contends that the gospel must be “incarnated” in African cultures, so that it becomes part of the daily life and experience of African people. Mabwanda sees this as a way to help Africans to find meaning and relevance in their faith.

According to Mabwanda, the process of inculturation requires African theologians to engage in a critical examination of African culture, in order to identify the positive aspects that can be integrated into Christian theology. He emphasizes the importance of drawing on the richness of African languages, proverbs, rituals, music, and art in order to create a truly African theology. Mabwanda believes that the process of inculturation is a dynamic one, and that African theology must continue to evolve and develop in response to the changing needs of African people.

In his work, Mabwanda also emphasizes the need for African theologians to engage in dialogue with other cultures and religions. He argues that this is an important way to promote mutual understanding and respect, and to build bridges of cooperation and solidarity across cultural and religious boundaries.

Mabwanda’s views on brewing African theology are grounded in a deep concern for the well-being of African people. He sees African theology as a way to empower African people, by enabling them to draw on their cultural heritage and their faith in order to confront the challenges they face. Mabwanda’s vision of African theology is one that is vibrant, dynamic, and responsive to the needs of African people, and he sees this as a way to contribute to the growth and development of African societies.

Here are a few examples of advocates of African Liberation Theology and their responses to critiques, along with their efforts to further develop the theology:

  1. Emmanuel Katongole, a Ugandan theologian, has responded to critiques of African Liberation Theology by emphasizing its rootedness in African culture and its focus on the experiences of the oppressed. He has also sought to further develop the theology by exploring the relationship between Christianity and traditional African religions.
  2. Mercy Amba Oduyoye, a Ghanaian theologian, has responded to critiques of African Liberation Theology by highlighting the need to incorporate the perspectives of women and marginalized groups. She has also sought to further develop the theology by exploring the role of African spirituality and indigenous knowledge in theological discourse.
  3. Aloysius Lugira, a Ugandan theologian, has responded to critiques of African Liberation Theology by emphasizing the need for a critical engagement with Western theology and its assumptions. He has also sought to further develop the theology by exploring the relationship between African spirituality and social justice.
  4. John S. Mbiti, a Kenyan theologian, has responded to critiques of African Liberation Theology by emphasizing the importance of dialogue and collaboration between African and Western theologians. He has also sought to further develop the theology by exploring the relationship between Christianity and African culture.

*Note: This is not an exhaustive list of all the advocates of African Liberation Theology and their responses to critiques.

  1. The paper focused on the relationship between revealed faith and innate reason in African Liberation Theology, with reference to John Mbiti’s work and the views of Timothy Mabwanda. The introduction provided an overview of the topic and the purpose of the paper, explaining what African Liberation Theology is and why it is an important area of study. The historical and theological context was discussed, with a focus on the social, economic, and political conditions in Africa that contributed to the development of this theology. The African perspectives on revealed faith and innate reason were analyzed, along with their significance in African Liberation Theology. The relationship between revealed faith and innate reason was discussed, along with critiques and challenges that have been raised against African Liberation Theology. Finally, the paper offered some final thoughts on the significance of African Liberation Theology from an African perspective in relation to revealed faith and innate reason.
  2. The relevance of African Liberation Theology for the contemporary world lies in its potential for promoting justice, liberation, and solidarity in Africa and beyond. The relationship between revealed faith and innate reason is significant because it allows for a dynamic and holistic approach to theological reflection and praxis. Through this approach, African theologians can engage with contemporary issues such as poverty, oppression, and violence, while remaining grounded in their religious and cultural traditions. In this way, African Liberation Theology has the potential to address the pressing issues of the contemporary world, while promoting social justice, liberation, and solidarity. However, for this potential to be fully realized, African theologians must continue to engage with the critiques and challenges that have been raised against their work, while also seeking to further develop and refine their theology in light of changing social, economic, and political conditions.

After a brief review of some of the past efforts of African theologians in developing African theology, Timothy Mabwanda makes some recommendations for Christian theologians who are writing African theology today. Here are a few significant remarks:

Decolonize African Theology: Mabwanda argues that African theology should be thoroughly decolonized by being rooted in the experiences and concerns of African people, rather than relying heavily on Western theological paradigms and ideas. He recommends that theologians should use African languages, concepts, and stories to write and communicate their ideas.

Be Contextual: Mabwanda encourages theologians to be mindful of the social, economic, and political contexts in which their theology is being produced. They should consider the specific needs and challenges of the communities they are serving and tailor their theology to address these issues.

Be Interdisciplinary: Mabwanda suggests that African theology should not be limited to the domain of theology alone, but should also draw on insights from other fields such as history, sociology, anthropology, and philosophy. This will enable theologians to develop a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of African issues.

Engage in Dialogue: Mabwanda emphasizes the importance of theologians engaging in dialogue with other theologians, both within and outside of Africa. This will enable them to learn from each other’s experiences, share resources, and develop new insights.

Focus on Praxis: Mabwanda recommends that African theology should be focused on praxis or practical application. Theology should be aimed at promoting liberation, justice, and solidarity in African communities. Theology should be relevant to the daily lives of African people and address the challenges they face.

Overall, Mabwanda’s recommendations focus on the need for African theology to be contextual, interdisciplinary, and practical, while being rooted in the experiences and concerns of African people. Although the book “Dispute Among Theologians On Whether ATR/s In Singular Or Plural: Discuss And Analyze” may not be directly related to Timothy Mabwanda’s views on Christian theologians writing African Theology, it does provide insight into his approach to theology and his commitment to engaging with African traditions.

In the book, Mabwanda explores the debate among theologians over whether African Traditional Religions (ATRs) should be referred to in the singular or plural form. He examines the different arguments presented by scholars and analyzes the implications of each position.

This approach of engaging in dialogue and critical analysis of different perspectives is also evident in Mabwanda’s views on Christian theologians writing African Theology. He emphasizes the importance of engaging with African traditions and cultures, and argues that African theologians should not simply adopt Western theological frameworks but should develop their own distinctive approaches that are grounded in African experiences.

Thus, Mabwanda’s commitment to engaging with African traditions and critical analysis of different perspectives is a common thread in both his book on ATRs and his views on African Theology, highlighting his emphasis on the importance of context and the need to develop theologies that are relevant and meaningful for African communities.