The rainbow nation : a critical analysis of the notions of community in the thinking of Desmond Tutu

Abstract

The Rainbow Nation is a critical analysis of the notions of community in the thinking of Desmond Tutu. An attempt is being made in this study to demonstrate that the ideal of the Rainbow Nation –an inclusive human community- is a defining motif in Tutu's theological and biblical hermeneutical work. The main discussion in the research project begins by raising a fundamental question which serves as the basis for an analytical construct to examine Tutu's understanding and view of community. The second part of this study focuses on Tutu's early life experiences of community within the South African context. Tutu's writings, sermons, public addresses and statements are systematically and chronologically arranged and presented. This study concludes that Tutu's theology against the apartheid system and his vision for new South Africa, the Rainbow Nation- an inclusive South African Community- rests on triadic doctrines: The Imago Dei, creation of man in the image of God, The Delicate Networks of Interdependence (African Spirit of Ubuntu) and Ecclesiology, which represents the kingdom of God on earth. It is no wonder that out of an oppressive condition Tutu sought a universal vision of inclusive humanity which transcends the barriers of race, class, tribe, ethnicity, religion and other forms of sectarianism. The fundamental problem addressed here, is the notions of community. Its importance and relevance lies in its examination of his approach to the logical development understanding, and realisation of the ideal of the Rainbow Nation. A serious contention in this study is that a critical analysis of the problem in Tutu's thinking can yield insight into the conception, character and realisation of a more inclusive, loving and caring human community. However the author of this study is aware of the fact that one cannot possibly exhaust all the salient aspects of the rainbow nation as a model of an inclusive human community. What this study is attempting to provide here is the insight into the thinking of Desmond Tutu that makes contribution to the discussion of the realisation of the beloved human community. The model of human inclusive community proposed here is functional not contemplative theoretical. Human inclusive community has always been a dynamic force and has social implications which cannot all be covered by this study.