Learn about Baluba (Democratic Republic of Congo) philosophy, thought, and spirituality in relation to other African wisdom traditions in Dr...Learn about Baluba (Democratic Republic of Congo) philosophy, thought, and spirituality in relation to other African wisdom traditions in Dr. Mukenge's latest work. Now available! You can purchase your copy here: madundelapress.com/index.php/shop/books/muntu-wa-n…

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Muntu Wa Nzambi provides a comprehensive, substantiated, response to a puzzling ontological question: “What specifically characterizes the human being as God’s special creation?” An examination of creation stories, religious beliefs, and cultural practices from across Africa allowed for identifying numerous themes common to many African ethnic groups, from among them: (1) the Luba, Kongo, Mongo, Yansi, Bashi, Hema, and Lendu – from the Congo; and (2) ancient Egyptians, Bambara and Fulani, Dogon, Mande, Yoruba, Igbos, Gikuyu, and Zulu - from other parts of Africa. In turn, a comparative analysis of the themes made it possible to construct a multifaceted character; first identifiable as a spiritual being in a physical body, full of vitality and a creative mind, capable of conceptualizing ideas and expressing them through articulate language, behavioral adjustments, or concrete actions or objects. The human character, offspring of African theology, is a fervent devotee of life-giving and life-sustaining spiritual forces – the Creator, divinities, ancestors, and nature spirits. He/she is community-bound, protected by inalienable natural rights, subject to moral restraints, and accountable for moral violations. As a family and kinship builder, he/she also seeks to establish and preserve community territorial autonomy, national unity, and sovereign control over the national homeland. He/she strives to secure free access to the community’s natural resources and positions his/her self as steward of these very resources through its judicious use, as well as spiritual and totemic partnerships. Animated by an inquisitive mind, the human of African creation stories is an inspired explorer and transformer of physical spaces from near and from far, and thereby a civilization builder wherever he/she lives. This book and its personified presentation of beliefs and customs of African peoples will be inspirational not only to the learner, but also to the specialist who wants a fresh synthetic perspective on African culture and spirituality. Show more