Wolność religijna wobec afrykańskich praktyk małżeńskich:: Chrześcijańska analiza poligamii w religiach tradycyjnych i kontekstach współczesnych
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The paper explores the contrasting views on polygamy from a Christian perspective and traditional African customs. It highlights that while the Church advocates for monogamy, many African communities value polygamy as an important aspect of cultural identity and communal heritage. Historically, polygamy was common in the Old Testament, reflecting societal customs, but Israel gradually moved towards monogamous practices, which were seen as embodying Yahweh’s love. The paper argues against the Church’s rigid enforcement of monogamy, questioning whether it is fair to require polygamists to abandon all but one spouse before baptism. It emphasizes that faith should be a voluntary journey, free from coercion, and that God’s commandments are meant to offer freedom rather than constraint. The paper also discusses the significance of polygamy in African societies, viewing it as a symbol of prestige and social status that ties individuals to their cultural heritage. The practice often serves to ensure family lineage continuation and support for women through customs such as levirate marriage. The author calls for theological dialogue to bridge the gap between traditional beliefs and modern Christian practices regarding polygamy.
Author: Mukadi, Marcel
Institution: Jordan University College
Language: English
Subfield: Religious studies
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7217684444