Research Articles (Old Testament and Hebrew Scriptures)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://hdl.handle.net/2263/1772

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Esther as a model for women intercessors in Nigeria
Olajide, Grace O. (Africa Journals, 2026)
In view of society’s complexity and intricacies, intercession is often required to enhance truce, survival, and peaceful co-existence. Intercessory roles cannot be overemphasized in any human society. In every stratum of a given society, decisions are made for or against people’s survival. It is imperative for some individuals to deploy their skills or influence to salvage unjust or hostile agendas. Women, given their feminine characteristics, can make or mar a lot of people’s destinies. They are wired with unique wit and strength to attain some feats that are naturally difficult. Such was the role Esther played in recouping the genocide of the Jews in exile. Her courage and resilient attitude birthed the establishment of the feast of Purim in Israel. Contemporary women in especially Nigeria can leverage on the disposition of Esther to salvage society from situations that are inimical to people’s survival and well-being. The study employed a historical-critical method that unveils the situations that surrounded the decision of Esther to do what she did, and the effects of her radical and undaunting actions for the Jews. The study recommends that women should utilize the feminine qualities that are embedded in them to rescue the vulnerable, marginalized, in minority, powerless, and downtrodden elements in society.
The enigmatic Hebrew word rkbh in Nahum 2:14
Chia, Philip Suciadi (Sage, 2026-08)
The Hebrew term rkbh found in Nahum 2:14 poses exhibit variations in their rendering of rkbh in ancient texts. Consequently, this article aims to clarify the ambiguous Hebrew word rkbh in Nahum 2:14 by employing textual criticism as its main approach. It will analyze manuscript evidence, assess the likelihood of transcription and translation variations, and take into account contextual and linguistic considerations.
The impact of oral Bible translation on spiritual formation in Malawi, with special focus on the Malokotela and Mihipiti languages
Banda, Maxwell Chiwoko (University of the Free State, 2026-05-29)
Bible translation plays an important role in spiritual formation, as it allows people to access God’s Word in their mother tongue languages. In Malawi, although the Bible has been available in Chichewa, a widely spoken language, for over a century, spiritual formation remains largely unfulfilled. Various ungodly cultural practices indicate that the message of the Bible is not rooted in people’s hearts. This gap is mainly due to the fact that the Bible has existed in written form; yet many Malawian cultures are mostly oral, with a significant proportion of the population, especially in rural areas, lacking literacy skills. This study surveys different scholars on spiritual formation and Bible translation to argue that translation efforts must take into account the communication preferences of the targeted audience. The research further examines oral Bible translation projects in Malokotela and Mihipiti languages, assessing their impact on spiritual formation. Based on field findings, the study offers conclusions and practical recommendations.
Here I am, I have come ; in the Scroll of the book, it is written of me (Ps 40:8) : the private and public piety advocated by Psalm 40 and the challenges faced by the editors of the Psalter
Botha, Philippus Jacobus (Unisa Press, 2025-12-22)
This article argues that Ps 40 should not be interpreted within a cultic milieu but as part of the literary context of the Psalter. As part of the conclusion of the final cluster in Book I, and thus as part of the conclusion of the first book of Davidic psalms, it is closely related to (especially) Pss 1–2 and Ps 35. When read as part of this context, it becomes clear that the psalmist, as the “servant” of YHWH, represents the in-group of faithful believers in the late post-exilic period who earnestly studied the Torah and attempted to follow its directives. They were waiting for YHWH’s intervention to save them from renegade fellow Jews and foreign overlords who oppressed them.
Health perception, depression and religious coping : results from a community of African traditional religion worshippers
Ekwueme, Stella Chinweudo; Ezugwu, Joy; Michael, Mokwenye Ekene; Uroko, Favour Chukwuemeka (Routledge, 2026)
This study evaluated religious coping’s impact on health perception, behaviors, and depression among African Traditional Religion (ATR) adherents in Southeast Nigeria. Quantitative data were collected using Health Perception Questionnaires, CES-D scale, and Brief RCOPE scale through face-to-face interviews. Multivariate and hierarchical regression analyses were conducted, controlling for demographic factors. Positive religious coping significantly moderated smoking, alcohol consumption, and physical exercise, while negative religious coping exacerbated smoking and drinking behaviors. Religious coping significantly predicted current health status, resistance/susceptibility, health outlook, sickness orientation, rejection of sick role, and attitudes toward medical consultation. Increased negative religious coping decreased resistance/susceptibility, health outlook, and sickness orientation while promoting negative attitudes toward doctors. Depression was moderated by positive religious coping, prior health, resistance/susceptibility, and health outlook but negatively influenced by smoking. Control variables did not predict depression among traditional worshippers. Physical exercise emerged as beneficial for reducing depression levels among ATR adherents.
Oppressive politics and economics of affluence : Micah 3:1-4 and its multifaceted parallels in modern-day Nigeria
Boloje, Blessing Onoriode; Omosor, Festus O. (AfricaJournals, 2025)
Drawing from a time of social turmoil and economic disparity, the prophetic book of Micah succinctly captures essential messages that resonate in modern contexts of marginalisation and vulnerability of people at different levels. Specifically, Micah 3:1–4 speaks very persuasively about how the wealthy and powerful oppress the poor through exploitative systems. As a sobering critique of corrupt, political and economic systems, this article seeks to explore the correspondence between economic exploitation in ancient Israel and oppressive politics in modern Nigeria-Africa’s reality. Reading through the lens of contemporaneity, this article brings together biblical and theological insights from Micah 3:1–4 to bear on exploitative leadership praxis that undermines the vulnerability of the poor in Nigeria. It underscores that Micah 3:1–4 mirrors several key aspects of oppressive politics and highlights the moral decay of leadership, and the exploitation of the vulnerable, all of which continue to shape the Nigeria’s socioeconomic and political reality. Such highlighting of leaders’ tyrannical behavior and systemic injustice calls for a mission of justice and accountability in a context of vulnerability of people.
Hidden forces : unveiling the mystical tapestry of occultism in Indonesia
Chia, Philip Suciadi (AfricaJournals, 2025)
This article explores the domain of occultism, with a particular emphasis on the occurrences of spirit possession and the associated Christian healing rituals observed in modern Indonesia. The research posits that malevolent entities, including the devil and evil spirits, are integral to religious belief systems and significantly impact individuals' lives. To substantiate this claim, the study references a blend of sacred scriptures and contemporary examples of demon possession reported in Indonesia. These instances offer critical insights into how the belief in supernatural beings continues to influence people's experiences and their interactions with the spiritual realm. Additionally, the research investigates the function of Christian healing rituals, which are utilized to counteract the effects of malevolent forces. These rituals, deeply rooted in local religious customs, act as a means of restoring both spiritual and physical health. The study employs a methodologically rigorous and experimental framework that has been refined over several years, facilitating a thorough understanding of the phenomena being examined. This methodology encompasses both qualitative and quantitative analyses of real-life case studies and spiritual practices, providing a nuanced view of the interplay between occultism, religion, and healing within contemporary Indonesian society. Ultimately, the research highlights the enduring significance of these belief systems and practices in today's world, illuminating the intricate relationship between faith, spirituality, and the human experience.
An exploration of Moses’ leadership style and governance in contemporary Nigeria
Olajide, Grace O. (Africajournals, 2025)
Leadership is part of our being and it is one of the significant definitions of what it means to exist. The creation of Adam (the human race) entails functional roles. Humanity is such a fascinating existence that requires adequate governance. Scholars have discussed Moses’ leadership skills in ancient Israel. The need arises to explore leadership as it relates to human governance. It is on this premise that the study employs Moses’ tactical leadership style as a classic model for the present leaders who appear not to be strategic enough to deal with several challenges confronting them. The study seeks to give credence to the prudence and skillful aspects of Moses leadership style. The paper employs a historical and comparative analysis in which primary data is elicited from the Bible and the secondary data is sourced from the published documents on leadership and governance. Relevant literature sources will be analyzed in relation to the domain of good governance. Moses’ unique qualities were the basis for his skillful actions. He defined his core values as being divinely motivated, skillfully directed, and manifested those values in the public sphere. The work recommends that leaders in contemporary Nigeria and elsewhere, should adapt Moses’ leadership style for truly effective governance to reign supreme.
« Ὁ ΠΡΟΆΓΩΝ » OU « Ὁ ΠΑΡΑΒΑΊΝΩΝ » dans2 Jean 1:9?
Chia, Philip Suciadi (Emanuel University Press, 2025-06-10)
Il existe deux traductions anglaises de la Bible qui utilisent le terme « transgresse » dans 2 Jean 1:9, à savoir la version King James (KJV) et la version New King James (NKJV). En revanche, la plupart des traductions anglaises, y compris la New American Standard Bible (NASB), la English Standard Version (ESV), la New International Version (NIV), la Revised Standard Version (RSV), la Amplified Bible (AMP) et la New Living Translation (NLT), emploient l’expression « va trop loin » ou « continue d’avancer ». La variation de traduction provient du texte grec, qui présente soit « ὁ προάγων » signifiant celui qui va trop loin, soit ὁ παραβαίνων » signifiant celui qui transgresse dans 2 Jean 1:9. Cette étude préconise la lecture grecque « ὁ προάγων ». Pour sou tenir cette position, l’article utilise la critique textuelle comme approche méthodologique.
Solomon Schechter's higher criticism-higher antisemitism and Wellhausen's Prolegomena : a historical examination
Teugels, Lieve M. (Amsterdam University Press, 2025-08)
In 1903, the famous Jewish scholar Solomon Schechter articulated his belief that Higher Bible Criticism was not merely a scholarly endeavor but a tool that could fuel antisemitism. Higher Criticism as a scientific method for the study of the Hebrew Bible had originated in Germany in the nineteenth century and was mostly practiced by Protestant scholars. The name most associated with Higher Criticism is Julius Wellhausen whose work Prolegomena to the History of Israel (1883) is indeed laced with supersessionist and openly anti-Jewish remarks. Jewish scholars of the so-called Wissenschaft des Judentums objected to Higher Criticism as they felt that the Christians had “stolen the Bible” from the Jews. Yet there were also Jewish scholars of that day who were attracted to some of Wellhausen’s ideas, such as his predilection for the prophetic voice in the Bible.
Towards an ethic of family solidarity : an intertextual reading of family fragmentation (Mic 7:5-6) and family reconciliation (Mal 3:23-24)
Boloje, Blessing Onoriode (Old Testament Society of South Africa, 2025)
The era of inevitable fragmentation and severance of family solidarity, forcing people to take sides and break family bonds, is an essential prophetic motif in the Book of the Twelve. By means of intertextuality, this article examines the collapse of family solidarity and family reconciliation in the books of Micah and Malachi, where fragmented family conflicts are observed, together with several prophetic laments that describe situations of complete social polarisation, which have shattered the moral and familial fabric of society. Such collapse of family solidarity and tranquillity, according to these prophets, is a symptom of society’s moral degeneration. Since marriage and family life are significant issues in biblical, theological and moral dis-course, this article probes the prophetic laments in the books of Micah and Malachi, providing contemporary readers with ethical insights within the larger domain of biblical theology and anthropology.
Towards a phenomenology of exegesis : “structures of feeling” and “historical imagination” as concepts for seeing texts differently, with post-exilic יראת יהוה Yahwistic piety in Job 28:28 as example
Lombaard, Christoffel Johannes Stephanus (Old Testament Society of South Africa, 2025)
An aspect of the practice of exegesis is characterised in this contribution, namely by drawing on the concepts of "structures of feeling" and "historical imagination. " The unstated is often a key part of a communicative event, such as an ancient text, which enables understanding, but which is not openly put forward. "Structures of feeling" and "historical imagination" help to extend our understanding of the Hebrew Bible texts in order to grasp, to some extent, these underlying elements of meaning. This is concretely illustrated at the hand of the post-exilic יראת יהו Yahwistic piety concept in Job 28:28. The key insight is that there is more meaning to be found between the proverbial lines than in the words themselves, in this illustrated instance as much as in many, perhaps all cases of written communication.
You are engulfed with misfortune because you are a Sinner" : a reading of Job 4:1-9 for Nigerian Christians through the lens of African biblical interpretation
Odo, Damian O.; Human, Dirk J. (Old Testament Society of South Africa, 2025)
Job was written as a dialectic to refute the theology of reward and punishment of the Deuteronomistic theology. Using rhetorical approach, this article analyses Job 4:1–9, a passage where Eliphaz responds to Job’s lament by advising him to accept suffering as divine punishment for sin. The study argues that Eliphaz’s attitude of civility and advising are desirable attitudes, which contemporary Nigerian Christians can emulate when faced with life’s hardships. Thus, the study concludes that the text can encourage civility, selflessness, and supportive counsel within faith communities, offering meaningful guidance for those in distress.
Skuldbelydenis en vergifnis in Levitikus
Meyer, Esias E. (Litnet, 2025-04-17)
AFRIKAANS : Die artikel ondersoek die verband, al dan nie, tussen skuldbelydenis en vergifnis in die boek Levitikus. In die lig van Hebreeuse terme vir belydenis word drie tekste in kanoniese volgorde in besonderhede bespreek. Deurentyd word ook aandag gegee aan Milgrom (1975 en 1991) se bydrae tot hierdie debat. Hoekom is skuldbelydenis soms nodig? Op grond waarvan word skuld vergewe? Levitikus 4 en 5 word saam bespreek, omdat dit duidelik is dat hoofstuk 5 op die vorige hoofstuk voortbou. Die doel van die voorskrifte in beide hoofstukke is om versoening en vergifnis vir sekere sondes te bewerkstellig. Hoofstuk 5 stel ons egter bekend aan ʼn nuwe sambreelbegrip wat ʼn soort versoeningsproses omskryf, en in hierdie konteks word belydenis een van die elemente wat tot die versoeningsproses toegevoeg word. Levitikus 16 beoog ʼn soort “huisskoonmaak” wat alle impak van onreinheid en sonde op die heiligdom probeer elimineer. Die hoofstuk bied ook die moontlikheid aan die volk om van hulle oortredings ontslae te raak. Dit is juis met hierdie ritueel, waar ʼn bok vir Asasel gestuur word, dat belydenis eintlik die oordrag van skuld moontlik maak. Die term vir skuldbelydenis kom ook in die voorlaaste hoofstuk van Levitikus voor. Hoofstuk 26 stel ʼn scenario ná die katastrofe van ballingskap voor. In hierdie omstandighede lei skuldbelydenis tot ʼn wending wat ʼn nuwe begin sonder ʼn offerkultus moontlik maak.
The scalpel and the sword : Reason’s role in shaping safe religions in the post-secular age
Firth, Walter B. (AOSIS, 2026-04-07)
Many nations historically identifying as secular are now transitioning into post-secular societies in which multiple, competing religious and ideological voices shape public life. This shift creates the possibility that fanatical or extreme interpretations of sacred texts may gain influence within emerging cultural discourses. Consequently, urgent questions arise concerning how religious communities utilise sacred space and sacred texts as sources for communal identity, meaning-making and even legal or political reasoning. These developments necessitate renewed theological reflection on the processes by which Scripture is interpreted, authority is negotiated and communal life is ordered within fluid socio-cultural conditions. This article argues that the Anglican category of Reason remains essential for cultivating responsible interpretation, fostering social cohesion and resisting extremist or coercive religious expression. INTRADISCIPLINARY AND/OR INTERDISCIPLINARY IMPLICATIONS : In public deliberation beyond explicitly ecclesial or religious frameworks, debates surrounding the use and interpretation of sacred texts remain persistent. As scrutiny intensifies concerning how such texts are disseminated, taught and invoked, it becomes increasingly vital to maintain a civic space capable of hosting disagreement, critical reflection and plural identities. This article contributes to Practical Theology in post-secular contexts by offering a framework grounded in biblical interpretation, historical analysis and the Anglican concept of Reason for navigating these contested cultural terrains.
A critical look at imprecatory prayers in Psalm 109 and their usage among present-day Christians in Nigeria
Chukwuma, Onyekachi Gift (AOSIS, 2026-03-20)
The Psalter is an anthology of religious poetry consisting of both songs and prayers. A category of the prayers contains imprecations, where the psalmist laments about the injustice meted out against him by his adversaries and calls on God for divine judgement. Imprecatory prayers are rooted in a deep desire for justice in situations of oppression and suffering. They express strong emotions of anger, frustration, pain, grief, anxiety and perplexity, acknowledging one’s vulnerability and complete dependence on God’s sovereignty. Although these prayers contain extremely harsh and hateful expressions, many Christians have embraced them as an appropriate prayer pattern when they are faced with various life challenges. This article employs the historical-critical method to interpret Psalm 109, offering insights into its application among present-day Christians in Nigeria who use it as a means of spiritual warfare against their enemies, regardless of its implications for the focal teaching of Christianity, which exhorts one to love one another, even one’s enemies, and to bless instead of curse. Therefore, a theological reading of Psalm 109 is valuable in delving into the rich underlying value of imprecatory psalms in contemporary Nigerian Christian practice. INTRADISCIPLINARY AND/OR INTERDISCIPLINARY IMPLICATIONS : The study posits that the ongoing horrific activities of religious extremists, Fulani herdsmen and unknown gunmen in Nigeria have necessitated the increased use of imprecatory psalms by many Christians and, therefore, contributes to scholarship in the area of religion and society, theology, Old Testament studies, biblical interpretation and African biblical hermeneutics.
We are all God’s children : kin and kith rejection or acceptance of adopted children in Igboland?
Okwuosa, Lawrence; Uroko, Favour Chukwuemeka (Routledge, 2026)
Children are God’s gifts that are treasured in all societies. Children, in particular, are what secure marriage bonds and allow families to extend generations. Adoption appears to be an option in the case of childlessness. However, it appears that this option is not widely accepted in Igboland. This study explores the appreciation of children in Igbo family and society through kin and kith attitudes of rejection and acceptance of adopted children. This qualitative, evidence-based study employed the use of social constructivism. Data for the study was collected from community dialogues of about 90 people from three communities in Igboland. The study revealed that adopted children are rejected by kin and kith for cultural reasons even though there is a clamour for change of attitude because we are all God’s children and are in the 21st Century.
After mission work comes retirement : a phenomenological study on the forced retirement of elderly clergymen in church missions in Nigeria
Uroko, Favour Chukwuemeka (Routledge, 2026)
This study aims to examine the experiences of aged clergy in Nigerian Christian churches. There are several studies on clergy retirement; however, a study that examines the experiences of older clergy in Nigeria and the impacts of forced retirement on aged clergy in Nigeria is scarce. This is a qualitative method using a phenomenological approach. The data was collected using key informant interviews (KII) and relevant academic literature. The 20 participants were in the age range of 71–85 years. The age bracket was chosen because most of the clergy are forced to retire after 70 years. The participants were recruited through a purposive sampling method. The data was analysed using the Colaizzi method. Emerging themes include i) experiences of aged clergy in Nigeria and ii) implications for church leadership, pastoral care, and institutional sustainability. The forced retirement of old clergy in Nigeria has an impact on the church and the retiree. The problem is that the secular is being brought into the spiritual. There is a need for various churches to review their policy on retirement, such as not relegating the spiritual benefits that the aged bring to church development.
Obaasima : an Akan woman of valour or a victim? From the perspective of Proverbs 31:10–31
Nyarko-Mensah, Paul; Human, Dirk J. (AOSIS, 2025-10-31)
This study explored the cultural perception of the Akan woman in Ghana and critically evaluates the claim that she is marginalised and considered inferior to her male counterparts. Using Inculturation and Liberation Hermeneutics, along with womanist theological perspectives, the research examined selected Akan proverbs that reflect societal attitudes towards women. These findings were then juxtaposed with the values of the enterprising woman described in Proverbs 31:10–31. The study revealed that, despite outdated cultural practices, the depiction of the Akan woman as inferior is misleading. Instead, the gender-based roles within Akan society are mechanisms for shared societal responsibility. CONTRIBUTION : The article proposes a redefined paradigm of Akan womanhood that reflects dignity, capability and egalitarian partnership.
The enigmatic Hebrew word ‘ אפים ’ in 1 Samuel 1:5
Chia, Philip Suciadi (AOSIS, 2025-06-19)
The Hebrew word ‘אפים’ in Samuel 1:5 presents significant challenges for both ancient translations and modern English translations of the Bible. In ancient texts, the Masoretic text presents ‘אַפָּיִם’ or ‘nostrils’ (face or anger). The Aramaic Targum offers a different perspective, rendering it as ‘בחיר’ or ‘(one) approved (portion)’, while the Syriac Peshitta opts for ‘ܐܦܥܐ’ or ‘double’. The Latin Vulgate provides a thought-provoking interpretation, using the word ‘tristis’ or ‘sad’. The LXX, however, prefers ‘πλήν’. In modern English Bible translations, the Jewish Publication Society renders it as one portion (cf. New Living Translation [NLT] ‘only one choice portion’), whereas the New Revised Standard Version, English Standard Version, New American Standard Bible (NASB) and New International Version (NIV) describe it as a double portion. The King James Version (KJV), on the other hand, interprets it as a worthy portion. CONTRIBUTION : Consequently, this research attempts to unveil this mysterious Hebrew word with textual criticism as its methodology.

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