If thou do not hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God

Abstract

This article examines the problem of theodicy in Black Judaism. Black Judaism has been traditionally studied along anthropological and sociological lines and as a result, the core beliefs and theological issues, which animate the faith tradition, have not been the subject of critical theological examination. This article will introduce the problem of theodicy through the autoethnographic method, offering a personal narrative for a self-reflexive examination in theological terms. Using William R. Jones’ concept of gnosiological conversion I will identify the oppressive features of Black Judaism that have hindered Black Jews ability to discuss liberation in a non-oppressive framework. This study suggests that Black Judaism is best understood through an examination of the problem of Black theodicy, meaning the belief in an omnipotent and benevolent deity, while acknowledging the historical oppression of African Americans. Black Judaism articulates a belief in Black theodicy, which asserts that African Americans are victims of divine punishment and must “repent” in order to experience liberation from ethnic suffering and moral evil in the form of anti-Black racism and White supremacy. I argue that this formulation of Black theodicy operates as a form of mis-religion.