Re-interpreting Genesis 34 in the Light of Religious Violence in Nigeria

Abstract

Religion plays significant roles in social harmony, yet it also serves as a motivation for violence. In Nigeria, religion has been at the centre of most violent conflicts, thereby gaining notoriety as one of the prime security challenges confronting the country. Genesis 34 is an important chapter in the Old Testament Bible. It demonstrates the violence done to Dinah, the only daughter of Jacob by Shechem and also the violence done by the children of Jacob to Hamor, Shechem and the whole community. This shows the reality of violence in every nation that is made of up of various tribes and ethnic groups. The reality of violence in Nigeria is even more pronounced as the nation is made up of millions of people with many ethnic groups and with various religious affiliations. Genesis 34 also gives the causes of religious violence in both Israelite and Nigerian societies. Paramount among the causes of religious violence include religious intolerance, religious fanaticism, lack of forgiveness, poverty, unemployment, suspicion and lack of trust. In order to control religious violence in Nigeria, this paper recommends that there should be respect for one another, respect for sanctity of human life, forgiveness and rightful engagement of youths.