The socio-cultural functions of indigenous languages in teaching theology

Abstract

This article aims to show that indigenous knowledge systems are the reservoirs of useful knowledge for teaching theology, particularly indigenous languages. It argues that theological language is an identity marker, and an ideological tool. Indigenous languages have something to offer in teaching theology. Language is a powerful force that forms national identity; and it contributes towards national unity. It is part of culture and it explains the abstracts through figures of speech. These figures of speech or metaphors are mostly comprehensible when viewed from indigenous languages’ point. Opportunities must be created for the space of the acquisition of these languages as a way of exploring and discovering the meaning of the texts. It is therefore recommended that the linguistic competence and performance be mastered for catching the metaphorical contents of the texts. Teaching theology does not only require gratis dictum but also expertise in language technical application such as code-switching, sandwich technique, mother-tongue mirroring, and back-chaining.