AFRICA AND AFRICANS' CARE FOR THE VULNERABLE IN THE OLD TESTAMENT: GOOD NEWS FOR CONTEMPORARY AFRICA AND AFRICANS?

Abstract

This article is concerned with the attitude of Africa and Africans to the poor and the needy in the Old Testament and the modern attitude of Africa and Africans (most especially Leaders) to the Vulnerable. The paper glanced through the Scripture for what it says regarding the poor and the needy and the various terms used to help the poor and the needy. It also examined the terminologies used for Africa and Africans in the Old Testament and critically discussed Africa and Africans care for the destitute in the Old Testament. The article further looked into African core values as they relate to the current attitude of Africa and Africans to the poor and needy. It draws a conclusion that the contemporary attitude is nothing but bad news as against the legacy of Africa and Africans in the Old Testament. For instance some Old Testament personalities like Ebed-Melech, Zephaniah and the queen of Sheba's origin were traced to African roots and they played significant roles through their care and loving spirit in assisting the needy and the less privileged irrespective of their colour and race in the Biblical period. Their giving spirit contributed to the success of the temple of God in the land of Israel built by King Solomon unlike some contemporary leaders in Africa that are noticeable for their misappropriation of funds for selfish and frivolous ends.