The Mukhanda Initiation Rite Foundation for Suku Cultural Values among the Basuku of the Democratic Republic Of Congo Vis -A - Vls Christianity and Inculturation
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Date
2000-02
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Abstract
Many African Theologians and Philosophers have dedicated a lot of works and
essays on African traditional religions; so, they want an African face of Christianity. The
whole question is on the Negro African identity as Christians. "African Personality" of
Blyden is very eloquent as he urges Africans to think from the African personality and
the culture which impregnates them. This culture is alive and rich as well. It presents a
coherent system of institutions and customs, invigorated by ethical and spiritual values.
The African is not inferior to anybody, but different in his personality. To promote this
African personality, Blyden proposes a threefold program, for instance, the rediscovery
of this personality first of all, then its modernization, lastly the definition and the pursuit
of some universally known values out of a complementarity of human races
Taking into account these words, we have given ourselves the task of looking at
some values of the Suku community of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Basuku have
their "weltanschauung", their world vision, which makes them distinct from any other
culture, but also similar to some. The Mukhanda initiation rite introduces us to this
"weltanschauung". It gives access to the Suku culture. Our task in this essay is to give a
description of this initiation rite which will create an awareness of traditional values
which can help a Musuku grow in his faith in Christ. This awareness will help him
challenge as well some practices which alienate the human person. We will give the
methodology used to collect our information. An overview of some books will help us
reflect more deeply on the Suku culture; a summary of the Kimbanguist Theology, a
Christian Church rooted in African traditions among the Bakongo, is very eloquent on the matter of any inculturation. Our conclusion will help us question some practices of the
Muldianda initiation rite and give some suggestions. Human race being "project", we
believe that a new Muldianda will bring a positive change in practices such as polygamy
and mistreatment of initiates.
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Keywords
Initiation Rite, Cultural Values, Christianity, Inculturation