Eco-Theological Implications of Psalms 8 in The Context of Biodiversity Preservation and Field Hunting in Osun Groove

Abstract

One of the prominent natural ecosystems in Nigeria that has attracted global attention with rich cultural, social, economical, political and religious relevance is Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove. In spite of the rising global scholarly attention on eco-theology and biodiversity, there is still inadequate scientific research on eco-theological implications on Osun-Osogbo grove and biodiversity preservation in the light of Psalms 8. Thus, this study aims at assessing the implication of eco-theological implications of Psalms 8 in the context of biodiversity preservation and field hunting in Osun-Osogbo grove, Osogbo, Osun State. The study employed historical and exegetical analyses using secondary sources of data. The pioneering work of Jürgen Moltmann serves as the theoretical basis of the study. The grove is regarded as the abode of the goddess of fertility, Osun, one of the pantheon of the Yoruba gods, the landscape of the grove and its meandering river is dotted with sanctuaries and shrines, sculptures and art works in honor of Osun and other deities. Osun-Osogbo Festival has attracted a lot of tourists to the grove contributing to the economic growth of the state. Plant, trees and animal species are gradually decreasing; thus, some flora and fauna are endangered. In the context of Psalms 8, biodiversity preservation needs to be enabled as it was observed that encroachment into the grove from the buffer zone as well as uncurbed daily activities along the road are beginning to have negative effect on the rich ecotourism potentials that are being conserved. Conclusively, the grove remains an integral part of the cosmological system needed to be governed by man and not man be governed by it.