Abstract
This article examines Paul’s concept of resurrection in 1 Corinthians 15:33-54 in contradistinction to reincarnation in Igbo cosmology. The approach has been analytical or qualitative. The historical-critical method and contextual tools are used in the interpretation of the Bible text. Paul sees resurrection as a miracle, a one-time event that is not repetitive, with a body that is not only in continuity with the original body but also new, transformed and glorious and is not subject to earthly limitations. These stand in sharp contrast to Igbo cosmological notions of reincarnation where the phenomenon is a natural process, repetitive, non-identical with the former body and where the new body is subject to all the earthly limitations. Reincarnation in Igbo cosmology runs contrary to the teachings of the Scriptures. This therefore has theological implications for Christian ministry for the Church in Igboland.
Highlights
The Igbo of Nigeria believe in reincarnation, which, as a religious belief, affects their openness to certain Christian doctrines especially those concerning death and the afterlife
Resurrection is considered to be a miracle whereas reincarnation in Igbo cosmology is the resultant effect of a natural process of rebirth
The only difference now is that they seem to belong to a different order of reality. This is not so in the Igbo belief in reincarnation where the ancestors are the active agents in reincarnation and where the reincarnated individuals still undergo earthly limitations as in the days of the past
Summary
This article examines Paul’s concept of resurrection in 1 Corinthians 15:33-54 in contradistinction to reincarnation in Igbo cosmology. Paul sees resurrection as a miracle, a one-time event that is not repetitive, with a body that is in continuity with the original body and new, transformed and glorious and is not subject to earthly limitations These stand in sharp contrast to Igbo cosmological notions of reincarnation where the phenomenon is a natural process, repetitive, non-identical with the former body and where the new body is subject to all the earthly limitations. Reincarnation in Igbo cosmology runs contrary to the teachings of the Scriptures. This has theological implications for Christian ministry for the Church in Igboland
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: OKH Journal: Anthropological Ethnography and Analysis Through the Eyes of Christian Faith
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
