African Zionism and Its Contribution to African Christianity in South Africa

Abstract

The paper highlights the historical development of African Zionism, with special reference to the four major messianic churches. Socio-political conditions and other factors contributed to the formation of African Zionism. Israel's nationalist theology of the temple and the John Alexander Dowie's Zion City concepts played a significant role in influencing the formation of African Zionism. The churches selected for the study are Zion Christian Church, Shembe's AmaNazaretha, International Pentecost Church, and St John's Apostolic Faith Mission. The focus is on the spiritual significance of the cultic centre as perceived by these church formations. The reasons for pilgrimages to the centre are elaborated on, and the contribution of these churches to African Christianity are highlighted.

A Conundrum of Makoti in the Light of Proverbs 31:10-31: Decolonising Mislaid ‘African Patriarchy’

“…Resane describes makoti as a new family member who is brought along by a son through marriage to establish a future with her. 50 The transfer of a bride's wealth or dowry, known as the ilobola (Nguni) or bogadi (Setswana), is a ceremony that brings a makoti into her new family-her husband's. 51 Baloyi mentions that while norms vary between different ethnicities, they have the potential to influence how marriage should be viewed within a society.…”

“…50 The transfer of a bride's wealth or dowry, known as the ilobola (Nguni) or bogadi (Setswana), is a ceremony that brings a makoti into her new family-her husband's. 51 Baloyi mentions that while norms vary between different ethnicities, they have the potential to influence how marriage should be viewed within a society. 52 Generally, it is acceptable in African world views that when you marry a man you marry his entire family.…”

“…52 Generally, it is acceptable in African world views that when you marry a man you marry his entire family. 53 The understanding of what it means to be a married woman is always explained within the confines of sociological gender constructs. The roles within marriage are also played in terms of what society defines as the place for women in marriage.…”

“…55 According to Resane, the common feature in many African cultures is that of tension between the daughter-in-law and the mother-in-law. 56 This is mainly because both parties have different expectations, especially if they are from different ethnic cultures. 57 To add, Nganase and Basson identify unrealistic expectations as one of the problems within in-law relationships, and further assert that conflict arises because of these differences and expectations.…”

“…56 This is mainly because both parties have different expectations, especially if they are from different ethnic cultures. 57 To add, Nganase and Basson identify unrealistic expectations as one of the problems within in-law relationships, and further assert that conflict arises because of these differences and expectations. 58 These expectations may influence how in-laws perceive and negotiate the norms of family living.…”