Abstract
Abstract This article, based on the author’s doctoral research, offers a theological response to the traditional attitudes towards childlessness within the Bakossi community of South West Cameroon. Research reveals a prevalent negative attitude towards those—both men and women—who do not have children. This stigmatization is often reinforced within Christian communities by a reading of scripture that interprets the command to ‘be fruitful and multiply’ as referring exclusively to biological reproduction. In contrast to this, an African cultural feminist hermeneutic can be used to argue for a more holistic interpretation of scripture, one that draws out God’s concern for family, community and creation.
Highlights
In many African communities, procreation in marriage is presumed to be the fundamental principle for the institution of marriage
My context centres on the empirical data gathered from childless couples in the Bakossi community and the Christian pastors I have interviewed
Many childless couples in the Bakossi community solicit help from the Bible in order to seek and reassure themselves that God is interested in human reproduction
Summary
In many African communities, procreation in marriage is presumed to be the fundamental principle for the institution of marriage. Many childless couples in the Bakossi community (and PCC pastors) solicit help from the Bible in order to seek and reassure themselves that God is interested in human reproduction. Childless men are prevented by cultural tradition from participating in religious acts like the pouring of a libation or carrying out a similar ritual relating to children, since these are normally performed by the family head.
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