A comparative analysis of pilgrim identities in Matthew 21:12-13 and that of Bernard Mzeki’s pilgrimage

Abstract

The paper is a comparison of pilgrim identities between the Passover Feast and Bernard Mzeki pilgrimages. Bernard Mzeki is one of the most celebrated martyrs in the Anglican Church in Zimbabwe and worldwide. 18 June is reserved as the day of celebrating his martyrdom. Anglican pilgrims from all over the world travel to Bernard Mzeki shrine in Marondera, Zimbabwe in honour of his sacrificial life towards the propagation of the gospel. The form critical approach helps in the reconstruction of the identities of Passover pilgrims and the Comparative analysis help in comparing the two. The paper established some significant similarities in terms of the pilgrim identities of the two, while certain peculiarities had been considered as well. Though religious pilgrimages are purpose of worship and encounter the Holy One, not all pilgrims attend the festival for these primary focuses. Some have different purpose hence the quest for these different pilgrim identities.