African Moral And Cultural Values Learning Outcomes

At the end of the lesson, you should be able to:

1. Explain the meaning of life and its wholeness in the traditional African society
2. Explain the African concept of community and the kingship system
3. Outline the factors contributing to harmony and mutual responsibility in the African communities
4. Describe the rites of passage and their role in inculcating moral values in the traditional African society
5. Explain the role of religious specialist and their relevance in modern society
6. Explain the African moral values

Discuss and evaluate continuity and change in the African understanding of leisure, dress, old age, widows, orphans, dowry, community, land, medicine, worship and property.

1. Meaning of Life and Its Wholeness in the Traditional African Society

1. In African thought, life is viewed as a gift from God (the Supreme Being) and is considered sacred.
2. Life is seen as holistic and interconnected: it involves the living, the ancestors, the unborn, and nature.
3. Wholeness means that physical, spiritual, social, and moral aspects of life are inseparable.
4. Every action affects not only the individual but also the family, community, and spiritual world.

2. The African Concept of Community and the Kingship System

1. Community:

• 1. Emphasis is on communalism rather than individualism.

  2. The saying “I am because we are, and since we are, therefore I am” reflects interdependence.

  3. Members share resources, support each other, and uphold collective well-being.

 

2. Kingship System:

• 1. Leadership is often hereditary and tied to lineage.

  2. The king (or chief) is seen as the custodian of culture, traditions, and land.

  3. He plays a political, religious, and social role, acting as mediator between people and the spiritual world.

3. Factors Contributing to Harmony and Mutual Responsibility in African Communities

1. Shared Beliefs and Traditions: Common values, customs, and taboos guide behavior.
2. Respect for Elders: Elders are considered wise and serve as moral guides.
3. Kinship Ties: Blood relations and extended family bonds strengthen unity.
4. Communal Work (e.g., farming, building, festivals): Encourages cooperation.
5. Conflict Resolution Mechanisms: Councils of elders or traditional courts help maintain peace.

4. Rites of Passage and Their Role in Inculcating Moral Values

Rites of passage mark important stages of life: birth, initiation, marriage, and death.

Functions:

1. Teach responsibilities, discipline, and respect for community norms.
2. Initiation introduces youth to adulthood, bravery, and moral expectations.
3. Marriage rites emphasize fidelity, responsibility, and family values.
4. Funeral rites reinforce respect for ancestors and the cycle of life.

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5. Role of Religious Specialists and Their Relevance in Modern Society

Types: Diviners, priests, medicine men, rainmakers, prophets, and herbalists.

Roles:

1. 1. Interpret the will of the gods and ancestors.

   2. Provide healing (spiritual and physical).

   3. Preserve and transmit traditions.

   4. Mediate in disputes and offer blessings.

Relevance Today:

• 1. They continue to influence cultural practices, herbal medicine, conflict resolution, and identity preservation.

6. African Moral Values

1. Respect for elders, community, and traditions.
2. Hospitality—welcoming strangers and sharing resources.
3. Honesty and Truthfulness.
4. Solidarity and Cooperation.
5. Sanctity of Life—life is sacred and protected.
6. Justice and Fairness—ensuring peace and balance in the community.
7. Responsibility and Hard Work.