Falola identifies religion’s lasting role in defining Africa’s moral standards

A United States-based erudite scholar of African history, Professor Toyin Falola, has recognised the significant role played by indigenous and foreign religious beliefs in structuring the ethical and moral standards of Africa and Africans.

The revered professor made this known while speaking as the guest lecturer during the convocation ceremony of the University of Mkar, Gboko, Benue State, on Friday. Leading the congregation of accomplished academics, graduating students, and the general public was the university’s vice chancellor, Professor Zacharys Gundu. The chairman of the occasion was the vice-chancellor of the Federal University, Lokoja, Professor Olayemi Durotimi.

Falola did not leave the audience in doubt of the various possibilities that religion wielded, especially as a guiding light in Africa. In the lecture titled ‘Religion and Values’, the historian stated that historically, “indigenous religious ideas have primarily shaped Africa’s moral compass. These traditional practices, based on reverence for the environment and ancestors, have served as the foundation of ethical norms for communities. They advocated for ideals such as communal living, elder respect, and the interconnection of all beings.

These beliefs, rooted in the natural world and the cosmos, conferred a feeling of purpose and belonging on individuals, weaving a tapestry of shared values and rules that guided both personal and community life.”
He argued that with the advent of foreign religions, new concepts “have been effortlessly interwoven with indigenous beliefs, resulting in a rich tapestry of spiritual and moral standards. The new religious frameworks brought with them precisely established legal codes and ethical views, which often aligned with ancient African spirituality’s essential precepts. However, the dynamic nature of this interaction cannot be overlooked. In Africa, the dance between religion and values is fluid, responding to ever-changing socio-cultural factors.”

Falola, however, noted that with modernity came peculiar challenges. According to him, “Modernity presents new ethical challenges. The advent of the digital era, growing urbanisation, and socio-political developments necessitate a rethinking of age-old religious ideas. How may traditional beliefs be reconciled with the ethical consequences of technological progress? What role does religion play in encouraging countries to strive for principles such as gender equality, environmental sustainability, and social justice?

“The changing societal circumstances need the reconsideration of religious ideas. Given the rising complexity of ethical quandaries confronting African nations, it is reasonable to speculate that religious systems may evolve. For example, deep-rooted African love for nature can combine with global environmentalist beliefs, possibly combining principles of responsible stewardship from Islam or Christianity. Such convergence has the potential to result in an interfaith ethical framework advocating environmental protection. However, transformation is rarely easy, especially at the intersection between tradition and modernity.

The process of harmonising religious ideas with current challenges may face opposition. Fundamentalist movements aiming for the restoration of pure religious practises and traditional virtues may emerge in response to societal changes. The struggle between innovation and tradition, global influences and local identities, and unity and division will undoubtedly affect Africa’s future trajectory of religion and ethics. The delicate dance of religion and values in Africa is a riveting story, embodying a fluidity that embodies the various spirits of the region. But, despite this turbulence, one thing is certain: religion plays a critical role in establishing ethical frameworks. It is still a beacon of moral insight, a venue for ethical debate, and a spark for communal action.

“Africa’s kaleidoscope of religious traditions is not only a tribute to its rich history but also a lighthouse illuminating the path to its future. Traditional African faiths play an important role in this dynamic interplay, which cannot be overlooked. These traditions, which are deeply founded in African history, have served as the bedrock of ethical norms, moulding both communal relationships and individual moral compasses. However, like any other society, Africa’s religious landscape has been influenced by outside forces. The arrival of Islam and Christianity on the continent did not destroy local faiths. Instead, these faiths coexisted and frequently intertwined with native spiritual practises, exhibiting Africa’s inherent ability to adapt and grow. This technique, known as syncretism, highlights the continent’s unique ability to blend disparate materials into a seamless fabric.

“What does this signify for the modern African, one would wonder? The ongoing balancing act between retaining ancient principles and adjusting to modernity is at the heart of this lecture. Consider the technical developments of the twenty-first century. As digitalisation sweeps the globe, Africa finds itself making choices between tradition and innovation. Religious doctrines, which were previously passed down through oral traditions or sacred texts, are now available with the click of a mouse.

This digital revolution is not only changing the way religious teachings are conveyed, but it is also inspiring deep reflection on the ethical elements of technological growth. How do we reconcile ancient values with quickly advancing technological ethics? This problem, which many Africans face today, adds another thread to an already complex tapestry of theological and moral dynamics.”

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