COVENANT AND KINGSHIP IN AFRICAN SOCIETIES THROUGH LEVITICUS 19:33-34: INSIGHT ON SOUTH AFRICAN XENOPHOBIA AND NIGERIAN COMMUNITY IDENTITY

Abstract

The study examined the intersection of covenant and kingship structures in African societies through the lens of Leviticus
19:33–34, which commands hospitality and protection for foreigners. Covenant theology emphasizes mutual responsibility, solidarity, and belonging, while African kingship traditions historically bound rulers to safeguard all within their domain. Yet, contemporary realities such as South African xenophobia toward Nigerians reveal a contradiction between covenantal ideals of inclusion and socio-political practices of exclusion. Existing scholarship has explored covenant theology within African Christianity but has not adequately addressed its relevance to inter-African tensions, leaving a significant gap in contextual theological analysis. The aim is to investigate how covenantal and kingship frameworks can illuminate inter-African relations and provide resources for reconciliation and communal belonging. Methodologically, the research employs qualitative theological exegesis, historical analysis, and sociological surveys across five of Africa’s largest countries Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, and Kenya. The theoretical framework is grounded in covenant theology and African communalism, highlighting how kingship structures embody covenantal obligations that challenge xenophobic exclusion. Findings reveal strong covenantal values in Nigeria and Ethiopia, contrasted with South Africa’s contested application amid xenophobic tensions, while Egypt and Kenya demonstrate hybrid models of covenantal identity. The study concludes that covenant theology, contextualized through African kingship, offers a framework for peacebuilding and inter-African solidarity. Recommendations include theological education, intercultural dialogue, and policy advocacy to combat xenophobia and strengthen communal bonds.