BETWEEN GOD AND THE GODS: A QUESTION OF FAITH

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A typical African god

This article arises from a friend’s assertion that the Blackman who worships his traditional gods while also professing belief in the Almighty God is confused and insincere. According to him, one must choose: either devotion to the Supreme God or allegiance to the gods. He argues that worshiping the Almighty reflects goodness, while identifying with the gods carries negative currents that contradict the nature of the Supreme Being. He calls this contrast Two Opposites. Here, we examine his position in relation to the broader subject of faith and worship. The African Religious Context Africans have long practiced their own forms of religion, often centered on idol worship. These idols, carved in diverse shapes and sizes, are placed in strategic locations for ease of devotion. In other cases, trees of varying forms serve as sacred symbols. Through these images, many Africans express reverence to the Almighty God. The Universality of Belief in a Supreme Being Across the world, numerous religions acknowledge the existence of a Supreme Being who governs the universe. This Being, commonly referred to as the Almighty God, is unseen in modern times yet widely believed to exist. Alongside this belief, many traditions also recognize lesser gods. These gods are viewed as intermediaries—channels through which worshippers communicate with the Almighty. Their names and identities vary by culture and geography, but they are consistently revered as mediators between humanity and the Supreme Being. The Tangibility of the Gods While the Almighty God remains unseen, the gods offer a tangible presence. As my friend observed, many Africans find fulfillment in being able to see, touch, and communicate with their gods. This physical connection provides a sense of assurance that abstract faith alone may not offer. Priests, Priestesses, and Intermediaries For many, the distinction between worshiping the gods and worshiping the Almighty is blurred. Petitions and offerings are often made to priests or priestesses, who are regarded as representatives of the unseen God. In traditional religion, these intermediaries accept offerings on behalf of the Almighty. How such petitions reach the Supreme Being remains a mystery. Similarly, in Christianity and other faiths, men of God collect offerings and claim to present them to the Almighty—yet the process is equally hidden from the uninitiated. Conclusion Faith, in its many forms, is ultimately a path toward a shared goal: communion with the divine. Whether one chooses idols, gods, or direct worship of the Almighty, the chosen means should not be condemned, provided it aligns with the ethics and values of society. The diversity of worship reflects humanity’s varied attempts to reach the same destination.

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