Faculty of Arts

Permanent URI for this community

https://kwasuspace.kwasu.edu.ng/handle/123456789/6051

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 86

A HERMENEUTICAL STUDY OF LEVITICUS 19: 15 AND ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR JUDGES IN NIGERIAN DEMOCRATIC CONTEXT
(Global Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences.Vol.03. Issue.06, 2024) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju
Justice is one of the attributes of Yahweh. Judges were appointed in ancient Israel by Yahweh for the Israelites to live in peace and harmony with one another. However, it was observed that the Judges in ancient Israel did not live to expectation. Leviticus 19: 15 was chosen as a text of investigation to determine the response of Yahweh to the Judges and its implications for Judges in Nigerian democratic Context. Historical and Phenomenological methods were used for the research. It was discovered that one of the organs that is expected to play crucial roles in governance is the judiciary. The study revealed that Judges and leaders in ancient Israel failed Yahweh. Also, since the inception of Democracy in Nigeria, the Judiciary has played and is playing important roles to protect the system. One of the major roles of the Judiciary is justice and equity for all and sundry in all election petitions, disputes in political parties, removal and reinstatement of elected officer. It was observed that some members of the judiciary are not living to the expectation of the law and the people. Some of them compromise justice for pecuniary gains. Some Nigerians opined that Judiciary has been compromised and as such cannot be trusted in the events of manipulations of electoral process or results by the politicians and the electoral body that has the responsibility of conducting elections. In view of this, many Nigerians no longer have trust in the Judiciary and this has brought the vocation in to disrepute.
A Plea for Vengeance in Psalm 35: 1-3 and Its Reflections in Africa (Yoruba) Indigenous Churches
(Verbum et Ecclesia, 2024) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju
Psalm 35 is one of the most popular, widely read and used Psalm among the African indigenous churches (Yoruba) in Nigeria. This article investigates why and how Psalm 35 vv. 1-3 is used as a plea for vengeance among the Yoruba Christians in African indigenous churches in Nigeria. The article explores how the plea for vengeance is understood and expressed in the African traditional context. African biblical hermeneutics with the view of providing a useful lens to reread biblical text in African context was adopted for the study. It was discovered that as early as the 3rd-century Christian era, the book of Psalms was used in the liturgy of the church. The notion of vengeance as found in Psalm 35 vv. 1-3 is a recurrent theme in African indigenous churches in Nigeria. This Psalm is used among the Yoruba Christians in African indigenous churches as a plea for divine intervention against their enemies. Through a synthesis of biblical and traditional African sources, this article demonstrates how the plea for vengeance is expressed in the cultural practices and beliefs of African indigenous churches. The plea for vengeance in this Psalm is a reflection of African indigenous churches’ understanding of key social issues such as justice, relationships between individuals and groups, and the need to maintain social integrity. Psalm 35 is usually read, sung, memorised, inscribed on parchment, and chanted by African christians and non-christians as expression of faith in God to intervene in the issues confronting them as he did for the Psalmist. Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: The Yoruba Christian readers of Psalm 35vv. 1-3 appeal to God for intervention against their enemies. The article emphasises that Christians should not take laws into their hands but trust in God for justice.
A study of bribery and corruption in Exodus 23: 8 and the Nigerian experience
(Integrity Journal of Arts and Humanities., 2024) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju
Bribery and corruption are social global phenomena that have generated debates among scholars. They are problem of routine deviation from established standards and norms by public officers and parties with whom they interact. It is widely held that bribery and corruption are the bane of development of many nations in the world today. Previous studies on bribery and corruption have situated its cause in human weakness with little or no attention paid to divine position on the issue. This study examined Yahweh’s instruction to ancient Israel on bribery and corruption. Exodus 23: 8 was chosen as text of investigation to establish Yahweh’s position on bribery. As a corollary, the study explored how Nigerians are expected to handle the issue of bribery and corruption in our contemporary time. African Biblical Hermeneutics that makes the Bible relevant in any culture and nation was used for the study. It was discovered that the level of corruption in ancient Israel and Nigeria is very high. Findings revealed that some Nigerian judges and leaders collect bribe to pervert the course of justice. The poor and the less privileged in the society suffer injustice of all sorts in the hands of leaders and judges that have received bribes. These corrupt practices are partly responsible for unrests, banditry, underdevelopment, unemployment and insecurity that have bedeviled our nation today. For Nigeria to stand tall in the comity of Nations her citizens must make justice and equity their watchword. Nigerians that are involved in Bribery and Corruption be sanctioned.
A study of the social and health damages of smoking in the Diwan of "Al-Riyadh" by the poet Issa Alabi Abu Bakr
(JNAL, Cairo, Egypt, 2022) Tajudeen Yusuf
Abstract: This article aims to study a poem entitled "The Scourge of the Age" in the Diwan of "Al-Riyadh", those literary works of the poet Issa Albi Abu Bakr, the genius writer of the modern poets in Arabic in Nigeria. This article dealt with one of the social-health issues prevalent in society and represented in the pests of smoking and its harms and negative effects on individuals and society in the poetry of the poet Iss Albi Abu Bakr, and the approach followed in the study is the descriptive approach prevalent in literary studies, the aim of which is to highlight the role of African poets, especially from the sons of Nigeria is in the service of society like other contemporary Arab poets. The study shows that the poet Issa Albi Abu Bakr has a dominant position among African writers interested in contemporary social issues in order to build a human society and establish values.
A Theo-Psychological Study of Divine Forgetfulness in Joseph Narrative in Genesis 41: 51.
(AKWA IBOM STATE UNIVERSITY JOURNAL OF ARTS AKSUJA VOL 5 NO 1 2024, 2024) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju & Okunade, Nathaniel Teminijesu
Genesis 41:51 is a pivotal verse in the Joseph narrative. This act signifies a profound divine intervention, transforming Joseph’s traumatic past into a future of promise. This study exegetically analyzed the text, delving into its theological and psychological dimensions. Historical and exegetical methods were used for the study. The stud reveals how divine forgetfulness is not merely an erasure of memory but a transformative grace. Theologically, it underscores God's active role in alleviating human suffering and facilitating reconciliation and new beginnings. Psychologically, it aligns with contemporary theories on memory and trauma, suggesting that divinely enabled forgetfulness aids in overcoming past adversities and fostering resilience. This study bridges ancient scriptural insights with modern psychological practices, providing valuable perspectives for theologians, scholars, and pastoral caregivers. It redefines forgetfulness as a divine gift, crucial for healing and fulfilling one's potential within God's providential framework. This groundbreaking approach challenges traditional views, presenting divine forgetfulness as a key to spiritual and emotional liberation, making this study a reference point for contemporary theological and psychological discourse.
Amos’ Oracle on Injustice in Amos 2:6 and Its Implications for Leadership in Nigeria
(Nasara Journal of Humanities. A Publication of Faculty of Arts Nasarawa State University, 2021) Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi
Prophets were restive whenever people and nations were not in right standing with Yahweh. Prophetic vocation comes to the fore when people abandon the way of Yahweh. Amos’ message for Israelite leaders on injustice in the eight century BC has been rated as the most explicit, detailed and timely prophetic warning in the Bible to the leaders and the reflections of the issues addressed by him in any nation have been treated with the utmost caution. Existing studies on injustice in the book of Amos have situated the cause of injustice in bad governance with little or no attention paid to the socio-economic dimension which are central to the understanding of injustice been perpetrated by the leaders in Nigeria today. This paper examined the Socio-economic dimension of injustice in Amos 2: 6 with the view of establishing parallel between the socio-religious landscapes in ancient Israel and contemporary Nigerian society. This is done through the use of the inculturation method which many African Scholars believe to be the way of making the Bible relevant in any generation. It was discovered that the situation in Amos’ time was similar with the present Nigerian society. There is oppression, injustice and moral decadence in Nigeria. This is as a result of greed, bad and corrupt leadership. The rich are getting richer while the poor are getting poorer. The church and her leaders who are supposed to play the role of the Prophets in Nigeria have failed because they are beneficiaries of the loot of corrupt and bad leaders in the society. This situation has hampered development in the land. For any nation to experience meaningful development; the human resources must be properly built up. In this building process, acceptable social norms and values must be operational. It is only with these we can build a virile nation.
An Appraisal Of the Significance of Arabic Language to the Muslims
(Ad-Dirayah:International JournalOf Islamic Studies, Nasarawa State University, Keffi. Nasarawa State, 2016) Tajudeen Yusuf
ARABIC LANGUAGE AND THE CHALLENGE OF IDENTITY IN MULTI-ETHNIC SOCIETIES: A CASE STUDY OF NIGERIA
(AL-LISĀN JOURNAL OF THE ACADEMIC SOCIETY FOR ARABIC LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE IN NIGERIA (ASALLIN) VOL. III NO. XII, 2021, 2021) DR. МОНАMMAD KAMEL AHMAD
Nigeria is a linguistic, ethnic, cultural and social mosaic with more than fourhundred different indigenous, endoglossic tongues.¹ According to Brann, these languages are of divergent genetic families such as Niger-Kordofanian, Afro-Asiatic, and Nilo-Saharan. Furthermore, Niger-Kordofanian has two branches: Niger-Congo and Benue-Congo. Niger-Congo itself is of three sub-branches, namely, Kwa, WestAtlantic and Adamawa. However, Benue-Congo has two sub-branches: Cross-River and Bantoid.2 a The Arabic language belongs to the Semitic family of languages. It is relative of the South-West Semitic branch that entails South Arabian and Ethiopian languages.3 The Arabic language was first introduced in to Nigeria through the Islamic faith and the Arab traders in the Northern part of the country in the ninth century A. D. when the Old Kanemi Empire was first introduced to Islam. According to Turkham as cited in Zakariya, Arabic at the initial stage was circumscribed to religious sphere in Nigeria due to its great affinity with Islam. The spread of Islam and the proliferation of the Quranic knowledge, coupled with the establishment of the religious statehood in Sokoto by Fulani Jihadists made Arabic gained enormous ground by the end of the nineteenth century. Today in Borno State, there is a sizeable ethno-linguistic minority population called Shuwa Arab whose mother tongue is Arabic. By implication, Arabic is one of the Nigerian languages. The fact that it is not given its due care in this country is regrettable.
ARABIC: THE MOST SPOKEN INDIGENOUS AFRICAN LANGUAGE IN THE CONTINENT
(Al-Nahda InternationalJournal Volume VI. No.2 December, 2024 = Rajab. 1446AH, 2021) Mohammad Kamel Ahmad, PhD
act: By: Mohammad Kamel Ahmad, PhD Kwara State University, Malete, Ilorin, Nigeria mohammadkamelahmad65@gmail.com The number of languages natively spoken in the fifty four (54) African states is variously estimated at between 1,250 and 2,100, and by some counts at over 3000.2) These languages belong to many distinct language families. Of all these languages, five (5) are the most used by their speakers in terms of population within the African continent. The five are Arabic, Swahili, Hausa, Oromo, and Yoruba. Each of these languages is spoken by multiple African countries by small or large population. They are the leading African languages attested to by scholars and researchers and confirmed by different and rigorous studies conducted thus far.
Barrenness in Old Testament and African and Scientific Perspectives.
(nternational Journal of Humanities Social Science and Management (IJHSSM) Volume 5, Issue 3, May-June, 2025, pp: 512-522, 2025) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju & Okunade, Nathaniel Teminijesu
Quest to overcome barrenness has been a persistent concern across cultures, religions, and scientific disciplines. In various contexts, childlessness is not merely viewed as a personal or medical issue but as a social, spiritual, and existential challenge that affects individuals, families, and communities. This study examines the Old Testament, African (Yoruba), and scientific (In Vitro Fertilization, IVF) approaches to barrenness. Historical and comparative methodologies were used. In the Old Testament, barrenness is portrayed as a divine test, often overcome through faith, prayer, and divine intervention. The Yoruba culture, integrates spiritual consultations, herbal remedies, and communal support in addressing infertility. Scientific advancements such as In Vitro Fertilization, IVF and other assisted reproductive technologies (ART) offer medical solutions but failed to address the psychological and cultural dimensions of infertility. While scientific interventions emphasize technological mastery over reproduction, the Yoruba tradition focuses on communal and spiritual practices.
Biblical Prophecy: A Catalyst for National Transformation
(KIU Journal of Social Science. Volume 6(2): 419-425, June. A Publication of College of Humanities and Social Science, Kampala International University, Uganda., 2020) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju
Biblical prophecy in its character and form comprises the classical unity of prediction and proclamation, of foretelling and forth telling. Prophecy is a message from the divinity to humanity. Prophecy is the art of creating a bridge between the natural and the supernatural order. In most cases prophecy is directed at a particular person or group in a given situation. The main aim of prophecy is a positive change of attitude towards God or Man. The aim of this paper was to investigate the role Biblical prophecy played in the transformation of ancient Israel with the view of establishing its relevance in the Nigerian society. Historical method was used. It was discovered that Prophecy was used and still being used to regulate and control human behavior in ancient Israel and in the Nigerian society. The paper established that Prophecy has been instrumental to the growth and transformation of Nations. Prophets are therefore enjoined to use their office to foster unity and peace that will bring growth, development and transformation to the nation in which they serve.
Call for Peace and National Cohesion: Reading from Selected Arabic Literary Texts of Nigerian Authorship
(Journal of social sciences Democratic Arabic Center For Strategic, Political & Economic Studies, Germany-Berlin, 2025) Tajudeen Yusuf
Since the old age, Literature as a mirror of society and its development often explores themes of morality, compassion, unity and peaceful coexistence in human society. Through poems and proses, literature can convey ethical principles that promote and educate peaceful coexistence, respect for others, and harmonious social relationships. Using descriptive method, this paper attempt to explore the contributions of Arabic Literature of Nigerian Authorship in promoting national integration, harmony and peaceful co-existence among Nigerian citizen with diverse ethnics and constituencies; literary texts (Poetry) were selected in the works of three literary icons. The study explores from the different works how Arabic literature of Nigerian authorship has promoted the ideology of unity, harmony, peaceful co-existence in Nigeria through this very heterogeneous socio-political region. The results of the study reveals that many literary scholars have contributed, through their literary productions, to the promotion of national integration, harmony and peaceful co-existence among the people who speak a multitude of languages and have array of cultural diversities and practices. Keywords: Arabic, Literature, harmony, peaceful co-existence, Nigeria.
Communication Principles for peaceful Co-existence
(Department of Languages, Federal University, Kashere. Gombe , Nigeria, 2021) Tajudeen Yusuf
Conspiratorial Politics in Jesus’ Ministry and Its Implications for Christians in Politics
(Jos Journal of Religion and Philosophy. Vol. 6. No. 1. June, 2025: 37-54. A Publication of the Department of Religion and Philosophy, University of Jos., 2025) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju & Malomo, Emmanuel Olumuyiwa
This study investigates the role of conspiratorial politics during Jesus' ministry and its implications for contemporary Christian engagement in political spheres. By examining key Gospel narratives, including the plots against Jesus orchestrated by religious and political authorities, this study reveals the intricate interplay between power, secrecy, and manipulation that defined the socio-political context of first-century Judea. It argues that Jesus' approach to these conspiratorial dynamics-characterized by a commitment to truth, justice, and radical inclusivity-provides a vital framework for contemporary Christians navigating an increasingly polarized and conspiratorial political landscape. The analysis highlights how Jesus confronted both overt and covert opposition, advocating for a transformative vision of community rooted in love and integrity. In contrast to the prevailing culture of deceit and self-interest, his ministry exemplifies a call to ethical political engagement. The study further discusses the need for Christians today to critically assess contemporary political narratives that often rely on conspiracy theories, misinformation, and fear-mongering. By drawing parallels between Jesus' experiences and present-day political challenges, this study emphasizes the importance of cultivating a culture of accountability, transparency, and truth in Christian political activism. Ultimately, it calls for a renewed commitment among believers to embody the values of the Kingdom of God, resisting the seductive allure of conspiratorial thinking while promoting justice and reconciliation in their political interactions. This study contributes to the broader discourse on faith and politics, encouraging a responsible and principled approach to civic engagement among Christians.
Court Prophets as Political Activists in Ancient Israel and the Nigerian Context
(Journal of Religion and Culture. Volume 20. Number 1: 141-149. A Publication of Department of Religious and Cultural Studies, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt., 2020) Awojobi Peter Olanrewaju
Prophets in ancient Israel were regarded as distinct people called to their vocation by Yahweh. The prophet was a person sent by Yahweh with a definite message. The prophets have the responsibility of delivering the message as received. However, these prophets belonged to different groups. The Court prophets were one of the prophetic groups or guilds in ancient Israel. Most of them were hired by the monarchy of their time. The court prophets were part of the palace staff and work directly with the reigning monarch. This view is based on the believe that if it was from Yahweh it must surely be fulfilled. Previous studies have situated the cause of non fulfillment of prophetic declaration in lack of divine call with little or no attention paid to its socio-economic dimension which is central to the understanding of the motive for prophetic ministry in the contemporary Nigerian society. The thrust of this paper is the socio-economic dimension of the reception and the delivery of prophetic message by the prophets in ancient Israel and the Nigerian society with the view of establishing parallel in both contexts.
Creating New Bounds: Identity and Form of African Literature
(Journal of the Literary Scholars Association, 2025-06) Aliyu Saeedat Bolajoko
Imagining the future of African literature, popular culture, and the digital humanities provides a rich pool for literary scholars to push the frontiers of the literary enterprise of Africa. Literature of the African continent has grown and is still growing, metamorphosing in diverse forms, and inviting scrutiny that will help upcoming scholars and literature enthusiasts appreciate the growth and extent of this vibrant body of literary art. There is no gainsaying in the fact that African literature is no longer that body that is strictly tailored after, or conditioned by, the literary traditions of other climes. It has come a long way from what Ernest Emenyonu describes as the pre-colonial and colonial European intellectual theory of “If it is not written, it is not Literature!” (3), and which Obiajunwa Wali calls “a minor appendage in the main stream of European literature” (13). The focus of this paper is to examine the African literary enterprise which, I dare to say, is defying old labels, shaking off old restrictions, and carving out new identities. This ambitious exploration I hope to explain to you using the changing dynamics playing out in the different modes through which African literature is taking.
Die by Fire (Isaiah 66: 16): A Study of Divine Justice in Old Testament and in African Yoruba Context
(International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research (IJFMR) Vol. 6. Issue 2, 2024) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju
This study attempts to reread Isaiah 66: 16 in the light of divine justice in African Yoruba culture in Nigeria. The study survey various uses of fire in ancient Israel and in the African Yoruba tradition. In the event of justice, a parallel is sought between Yahweh and a Yoruba deified divinity called Sango whose presence is marked by fire, thunder and lightning. The parallel is with the view to establish the significance of fire on justice in African Yoruba Christianity. African Biblical Hermeneutics was used for the study. It was discovered that fire was used as medium of divine justice and mercy in African Yoruba tradition. Fire marked divine presence, manifestation of the glory of God, revelation of God’s power, cleansing of human and vessels for holy use, and use for domestic purposes especially cooking. The African Yoruba Christians in Nigeria see fire as a weapon of divine justice. Therefore, in their prayers to God they call down fire to kill their spiritual and physical enemies. They are fond of using the words: ‘die by fire’. In this way, the Bible becomes a sure and reliable weapon in the battles of life and thus makes the biblical text relevant in any context, condition and generation.
Dominion Theology in Genesis 1: 26 in Nigerian Context
(Insight: Journal of Religious Studies. A Publication of Babcock University Religious Studies Department, 2019) Awojobi Peter Olanrewaju
Human beings are believed to be the crown of God’s creation and were divinely given the responsibility of having dominion over other creations. Some scholars are of the opinion that men who were appointed the managers of the earth have degraded it. This has resulted in a lot of crises. Humans are also accused of polluting the earth they were created to protect through emission of dangerous chemicals that are hazardous to the general health of the creation. The aim of this paper was to investigate the nature of the dominion that man is commanded to have over the trees, animals, seas, and the environment in general with reference to Nigeria. This was done by carrying out the exegesis of key words in Genesis 1:26 in relation to the Nigeria context. It was discovered that environmental degradation is one of the banes of the Nigerian society. This has resulted in health, socio-economic, ethnic and political crises in Nigeria. These have negative impacts on the growth and development of the nation.
Dynamics of Justice in the Light of Isaiah 1: 17 and Its Implications for Church Leaders in Nigeria
(Journal of African Interdisciplinary Studies (JAIS) Volume 8(11). 99-110, 2024) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju, et al
Yahweh is a God of Justice, whereas the poor from time immemorial have continued to suffer injustice in the hands of rulers who are supposed to be the representatives of Yahweh. This study examines Yahweh’s demand for Justice in Isaiah 1: 17 and Its Implications for Church leaders in Nigeria. Historical method was used for the study. It was discovered that as the level of injustice was very high in the time of Isaiah, so it is in contemporary Nigeria. Prophet Isaiah delivered Yahweh’s oracle on what he expected from the leaders of his people. The poor in Nigeria are suffering in the hands of leaders and the wealthy. Injustice has dominated the economic, social, political, judicial, cultural, religious, and ethnic lives of many Nigerians. Injustice in Nigeria has produced groups like Boko Haram, the Niger Delta Militancy, OPC and Bandits. The study concludes that for Nigeria to develop and take her place in the comity of nations, Church leaders in Nigeria are to emulate the life and ministry of Iasiah by speaking out on any issue of injustice in the country. Church leaders are to champion reconciliation and peacebuilding across ethnic, religious, and socio-economic divides. They facilitate dialogue, mediation, and conflict resolution efforts, fostering mutual understanding and solidarity among conflicting parties. They should embrace their prophetic mandate to seek justice and defend the oppressed, the widows and the orphans. Church leaders must contribute significantly to the advancement of human rights, peace, and development in Nigeria through continued dedication, collaboration, and advocacy. Through these efforts, Church leaders can help build a society where all individuals are treated with dignity, fairness, and respect, regardless of their social status or background.
Economic Motivation of Prophetic Vocation in Ancient Israel: Reflections in Nigeria
(Lafia Journal of Religion and Humanities Vol.1 & 2, June / July, 2022. A Publication of Christian Religious Studies, Federal University of Lafia, Nasarawa State, 2022) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju
From the eight century BC, the phenomenon of false prophecy has become a controversial issue in Old Testament studies because; sometimes, it is very difficult to distinguish true prophecy from false. Previous studies on false prophecies have focused on its existence and consequences in ancient Israel, with little or no attention paid to the economic dimension, which is central to understanding prophetic ministry crises, in ancient Israel and the contemporary Nigerian society. This study, therefore, examined economic motivations for false prophecies in ancient Israel, with a view to establishing their reflections in the prophetic ministry in Nigerian context. The study adopted the historical and phenomenological methods. It discovered that there were false Prophets in ancient Israel and Nigerian society. Prophets in both contexts operated in groups and as such it was common to see one group making derogatory remarks about the other. This study further revealed that, some of the Prophets in ancient Israel who were part of the power structure and economically buoyant were called false Prophets by those who dissociated themselves from the reigning monarch. Therefore, economic hardships in a nation can make Prophets to compromise prophetic oracles on the altar of pecuniary benefits. The paper concluded that Prophets in Nigeria, like some Prophets in ancient Israel should condemn in clear terms, the unjust socio-political structure and elements that are responsible for the present economic predicaments. Hence, the paper recommended that Prophets in Nigeria should focus on their calling and trust in God to meet their economic needs.

Browse

Browsing Faculty of Arts by Title

Results Per Page

Sort Options