01: KA, The Holy Book of Neter is the first attempt of Africans to write their own sacred text.
The book’s authors do not claim it will be the revealed Word of God in the manner of the Christian Bible, but rather a collection of prayers and African religious teachings. David Gian Mailu, a popular East African fiction writer, is the lead author of the book assisted by other African scholars.
By weaving together the different threads of indigenous African religion into one text, the authors hope the text will create a unified African religion. Prominent African theologian John Samuel Mbiti, a consultant on the book, says the effort will mark a “move away from institutionalized religion, while holding onto elements of religious belief and some occasional religious formalities.”
African Christian leaders have criticized the project, believing it will confuse and undermine the faith of believers.
(Source: Catholic World Report, August/September)