The ingredients to (true) Christiantiy and theology: Canaan Sodindo Banana and biblical and theological studies

Abstract

Canaan Banana argued for a true Christianity and theology in Africa in many of his published works. This article has sought to outline the ingredients of this true Christianity and theology showing how especially such ingredients can open up space for biblical scholars and theologians in Africa. Among the ingredients are African culture and religion, African experience as well as equality, justice and fairness. On African culture, religion and experience, Banana questions the privileged position of the Bible while he privileges the Bible when arguing on the other ingredients. This contradiction, it is argued, can open up new possibilities for biblical studies by raising critical questions that demand attention of biblical scholars and theologians. This study uses a socio-historical approach to data analysis and to a lesser extent a theological approach.