Examining Religious Freedom and African Marital Practices: A Christian Perspective on Polygamy in Traditional Religions and Contemporary Issues

Marcel Mukadi

doi:10.21697/lr.16391

Published: 2025-12-22

Vol. 4 (2025)

Examining Religious Freedom and African Marital Practices

A Christian Perspective on Polygamy in Traditional Religions and Contemporary Issues

Marcel Mukadi

LIBERTAS RELIGIOSA Studium interdyscyplinarne wolności religijnej

Section: Artykuły

https://doi.org/10.21697/lr.16391

Abstract

The paper explores the contrasting views on polygamy from a Christian perspective and traditional African customs. It highlights that while the Church advocates for monogamy, many African communities value polygamy as an important aspect of cultural identity and communal heritage. Historically, polygamy was common in the Old Testament, reflecting societal customs, but Israel gradually moved towards monogamous practices, which were seen as embodying Yahweh’s love.

The paper argues against the Church’s rigid enforcement of monogamy, questioning whether it is fair to require polygamists to abandon all but one spouse before baptism. It emphasizes that faith should be a voluntary journey, free from coercion, and that God’s commandments are meant to offer freedom rather than constraint.

The paper also discusses the significance of polygamy in African societies, viewing it as a symbol of prestige and social status that ties individuals to their cultural heritage. The practice often serves to ensure family lineage continuation and support for women through customs such as levirate marriage. The author calls for theological dialogue to bridge the gap between traditional beliefs and modern Christian practices regarding polygamy.

Keywords:

polygamy in Africa, religious freedom, Christian momogamy, traditional religions, interreligious dialogue, Christian inculturation, pastoral practice

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Mukadi, M. (2025). Examining Religious Freedom and African Marital Practices: A Christian Perspective on Polygamy in Traditional Religions and Contemporary Issues. LIBERTAS RELIGIOSA Studium Interdyscyplinarne wolności Religijnej, 4, 79–98. https://doi.org/10.21697/lr.16391

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