A Journey into African Spirituality

An Exploration of Its Key Values, Traditions, and Healing Methodologies

Datos Bibliográficos

ID5654588
AutoresNokwanda Mthethwa, Nonsikelelo Precios Mthethwa (0000-0002-4800-4006, Durban University of Technology), Raisuyah Bhagwan (0000-0002-1584-9432, Durban University of Technology, autor de correspondencia)
Año2025
Volumen16
Número10
Páginas1300
Fecha de publicación2025-10-13
Peer ReviewedSí
Open AccessSí
TipoARTICLE
RevistaReligions (JOURNAL)
Identificadores de la revistaISSN: 2077-1444 • E-ISSN: 2077-1444
EditorialMDPI AG (PUBLISHER • IT)
DOI10.3390/rel16101300
OpenAlexW4415130163
IdiomaEN
Citas recibidas2
Referencias citadas35

This paper explores African spirituality by examining its core values, traditions, and healing methodologies. Employing a qualitative research design and ethnographic method, data were collected through individual interviews with twelve parents (Sample 1) and a focus group discussion with fifteen community members and traditional leaders (Sample 2) in a deeply rural African community in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Participants were recruited with the assistance of community elders for their in-depth knowledge of this faith tradition. Thematic analysis generated three overarching themes: understanding African spirituality; spiritual beliefs and practices within African spirituality; and healing methodologies. The findings reveal a complex system of interconnected beliefs and practices that shape African communal life, highlighting the role of spiritual rituals in sustaining the well-being of families and communities

Ethnography · Faith · Focus group · Participant observation · Qualitative research · Spirituality · Thematic analysis · African cultural and philosophical studies · Religion, Society, and Development · Religion, Spirituality, and Psychology