Xenophobia and Love: Negotiating Reconciliation between South Africa and Nigeria in Light of 2 Corinthians 5:16-21 and 1 John 4:16-21
Scholars of biblical and theological studies, have engaged extensively with the issue of xenophobia in South Africa, but less attention has been paid to its impact on Nigerian immigrants and diplomatic relationships from a biblical and theological standpoint. This paper re-examines xenophobia throug...
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
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Africajournals
2025-08-01
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| Series: | Pharos Journal of Theology |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.pharosjot.com/uploads/7/1/6/3/7163688/article_15_106_4__regular_issue_august.pdf |
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| Summary: | Scholars of biblical and theological studies, have engaged extensively with the issue of xenophobia in South Africa, but less attention has been paid to its impact on Nigerian immigrants and diplomatic relationships from a biblical and theological standpoint. This paper re-examines xenophobia through the lenses of 2 Corinthians 5:16–21 and 1 John 4:16–21, proposing a theological framework for reconciliation between South Africans and Nigerians. It argues that the violent xenophobic attacks are rooted in hate/the absence of love, and posits love as a site for reconciliation and a rediscovery of authentic African kinship. The study highlights the impact of xenophobia on Nigerian immigrants— comparable to the experiences of Mozambicans and Zimbabweans—and explores how these wounds may be addressed through a theology of love. Utilizing an interdisciplinary approach, this paper draws on media reports documenting xenophobic incidents against Nigerians, alongside existing scholarly literature. The selected biblical texts are examined through the lens of African biblical criticism, specifically the evaluative approach. How may love theology help in the realisation of reconciliation and good kinship in Africa? |
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| ISSN: | 2414-3324 |