A theology of sin related to poverty

Abstract

This article is a literature study and seeks to explore the correlation between sin and poverty. It is an important subject since it helps researchers and policy makers to understand what lies at the root of the persisting cycle of poverty within contemporary society globally, and particularly in Africa. The point of departure for this investigation is based on Myers’ (2007:88) assumption: ‘without a strong theology of sin, comprehensive explanations of poverty are hard to come by’. It is argued that sin entails the violation of God’s standard of loving Him and caring for others, which applies at a personal as well as societal level. It will be demonstrated that poverty as a situation of dire needs or a lack of means for survival is caused mainly by oppression and economic exploitation. These conditions express dysfunctional relationships, which portrays the lack of love. The virtue of love is therefore a key factor that provides correctives for the relationship between sin and poverty.