The Will to Arise: Women, Tradition, and the Church in Africa

by Mercy Amba Oduyoye (Editor), Musimbi R. A. Kanyoro (Editor)

What is the reality of being African, woman, and Christian? In this collection of original essays, African women theologians write about the life and dreams, the sorrows and joys of African women in a continent where religion shapes the whole of life. The first two parts of the book describe the role of women in terms of culture, rites of passage, and daily life. Attitudes toward birthing and naming, marriage and widowhood, polygamy, prostitution, and death are all explored. The third part focuses on the church, reviewing biblical attitudes toward women, and showing how African women can and should contribute to the life of the Christian church. Musimbi R. A. Kanyoro Mercy Amba Oduyoye Rosemary N. Edet Anne Nasimiyu-Wasike Daisy N. Nwachuku Rabiatu Ammah Judith Mbula Bahemuka Lloyda Fanusie Bernadette Mbuy Beya Teresa M. Hinga Anne Nachisale Musopole R. Modupe Owanikin Teresa Okure "The themes in 'The Will to Arise' constitute the base of contemporary African women's theological scholarship. . . . At their most creative, these theologians affirm cultural traditions and criticize their failings, in order to lead the reader to new visions that can renew religious life in our various contexts. -from the Foreword by Katie G. Cannon

Genres: Feminism

236 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1992

Reviews

[Debbie Blane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some of the issues in this book are dated due to the fact that the book is over 10 years old. However, it is well written and well worth reading for anyone interested in the realities of everyday life for African women. Particularly helpful are the discussions on polygamy, which are found in nearly every chapter of this anthology. There is also a chapter on Islam written by a Muslim woman. It is a contribution both to Islam and also to Christianity. The premise of the book, in my opinion, is spelled out in the introduction: "....how predominantly male-influenced cultures have influenced both translation and interpretation of the Bible."