Christians in Kenya and the continent will from next month enjoy a new version of the bible written in the African context.
The Africa Study Bible (ASB), is a seven-year, cross-continental effort that has produced the first study Bible developed by Africans for Africans.
ASB brings together 350 contributors from over 50 countries on the continent, providing a unique African perspective.
It is an all-in-one course in biblical content, theology, history, and culture, with special attention to the African context.
Each feature was planned by leaders in the continent to help readers grow their faith in Jesus Christ by providing understanding and instruction on how to live a good and righteous life.
The book comprises of over 2400 notes to explain the Bible, and is tailored to inspire readers to apply truth to everyday life, teach Christian values and doctrine.
Additionally, the book uses relevant African proverbs and touch-points to give African perspective on the Bible and also show parallels with African wisdom.
Speaking at the pre-launch yesterday, National Council of Churches of Kenya Secretary General Rev Canon Peter Karanja said the book will enable Christians get a better grasp of the gospel.
“It is a good initiative and will help believers in the quest to deepen their faith in God and the word,” he said.
There are over 1.3 million African immigrants in the US and an additional half million African born people living in the UK who will benefit from the new Bible.
“A lot of the analogies and cultural phrases in American study Bibles don’t relate fully to many of the issues a lot of Africans are going through—like civil war, polygamy, and the worship of idols,” said Natalie Cameron, spokesperson at Oasis International, which helped to develop the ASB.
Conversely, some Bible stories resonate especially well, such as those of the Israelite tribes, given that many Africans are deeply connected to their own tribes.