Traditional Religion, and Morality in Society

Abstract

African Indigenous religions and moral values have a relationship that one could argue are inseparable because moral values draw from religious belief and cultural values. One can develop moral ideals and sensitivity without religion, but in the African world, traditional religious beliefs have informed morality to the extent that some would claim that religion and morality are inextricably tied together. This chapter explores and discusses Indigenous religions and moral values in Africa’s societies. We offer only a limited perspective to the subject since to invoke traditional religions is to refer to an Indigenous worldview that includes but is not limited to a belief in the Supreme Being, humanity and its place in the world, rituals of transformation that people engage in, belief and respect of ancestors, divinities, spirits, and the created order that are the source of living and inspiration and arena in which morality is explored and lived. Studying moral beliefs in such a broad context also invites considerations of ideas and beliefs in things like magic, witchcraft, and divination. In this chapter, then we discuss the interplay of religion and moral issues in societies, drawing illustrations from some parts of Africa. Since African Traditional Religion is not static, this study reveals how the introduction of colonialism and the European cultural and economic practices, and pressing issues such as corruption, ethno-religious politics, inter-party rivalries, and democracy have affected the Indigenous structures and moralities in African societies.