A comparison of Tiv traditional concept of predestination with predestination in the Epistle to the Romans

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Periodical article

Title:	A comparison of Tiv traditional concept of predestination with predestination in the Epistle to the Romans
Author:	Toryough, Godwin N.
Year:	2009
Periodical:	Orita: Ibadan Journal of Religious Studies (ISSN 0030-5596)
Volume:	41
Issue:	2
Pages:	56-83
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Nigeria
Subjects:	African religions Tiv Bible
Abstract:	This paper examines Tiv thinking on predestination. The Tiv live in Benue State, Nigeria. The paper shows that the Tiv share similar ideas with the Jews and many other African tribes such as the Yoruba and the Isoko. Tiv world view hinges greatly on Aondo (God) and other cosmo-supernatural forces such as 'mbatsav' (witches and wizards). The Tiv believe that Aondo holds unquestionable sovereignty and uses this in assigning men's lot to them. This world view compares favourably with the teachings of Paul in the Epistle to the Romans, particularly the ninth chapter of Romans. This belief has the potential of calming tension among the Tiv as it helps them both to struggle to achieve greatness but also to resign joyfully to fate when their efforts fail to propel them to greatness. On the whole, it can be said that many of the biblical themes are not foreign to African traditional belief systems. Ref. [ASC Leiden abstract]