Claudia Nolte-schamm

Christian and African Paradigms of Reconciliation in South Africa: Comparing Paradigms of Reconciliation and How They Could Dialogue for the Benefit of South African Society Claudia Nolte-schamm

This study seeks to compare paradigms of reconciliation in African tradition (including African indigenous religion and culture) and Christianity, in order to enhance the reconciliation process in South Africa. The aim is to enable and promote dialogue between African tradition and Christian tradition, with special reference to the reconciliation paradigms they offer. In order to accomplish this, the first step taken is to establish what African tradition has to offer in terms of reconciliation resources. The next step is to establish what the Christian faith tradition has to offer in terms of reconciliation paradigms. After having elaborated on certain reconciliation paradigms lodged in both African tradition and Christianity, the next step is to explore ways in which these paradigms interact. This study seeks to highlight points of agreement and connection between the paradigms of reconciliation provided by African tradition and Christian tradition. Moreover, it seeks to illustrate that the two cultural and religious traditions could interact fruitfully for the benefit of South African society.