Examining the Afro-Hebrew Religio-cultural affinity as reflected in the book of Ruth: a comparative approach

Abstract

This paper is an analysis of the book of Ruth indicating the close affinity between the African and Biblical (specifically Hebrew) cultures. The paper contains arguments that are geared towards highlighting the striking closeness between the cultures of these two communities that lived worlds apart and without any known means of cultural exchange. The objectives guiding this work include an examination of the theme of suffering as portrayed through the persons of Naomi and Ruth, an analysis of the theme of vulnerability among women as portrayed through the experience of Naomi, Ruth and Orpha, a determination of the relationship between African and Hebrew cultures in regard to the treatment of women by society and to highlight lessons that can be learnt from this text and which can be used to enhance the fight against gender-based injustices in Africa. This work is based on the capability approach model as presented by Martha C. Nussbaum (2000), research was carried out using sources and literary perusal and was interpreted using the grounded theory approach. The paper argues that there is validity in African cultural practices, contrary to what European missionaries wanted us to believe. It argues that Christian mission work today shold consider African cultre as a point of departure to plant Christian values, rather than a blanket condemnation of anything African. Consistent with the strong chsractor displayed by the Naomi-Ruth-Boaz triangle, present day governments and Christian bodies should put in place measures to ensure gender equity and equitability im the distribution of resourses. The paper concludes by advancing the view that the close affinity between African and Hebrew cultures may be a pointer to a common origin for humankind.