The study focuses on the National Vision Discussion Document (NVDD) from Zimbabwe, and
is a reflection of the need for, and the churches’ approach to, reconciliation in Zimbabwe. The
analysis of the social context in which the NVDD was written sets the tone for this study, and
provides the basis for discussing and constructing a deeper theology of reconciliation in
Zimbabwe. Two criticisms of the NVDD are advanced, namely, the lack for a critical social
analysis, and a weak theological reflection.
In responding to the first criticism, the study undertakes a detailed analysis of three key areas
of enmity, namely, the ethnic conflicts between the Shona and Ndebele, the racial conflicts
between white and black centered on land, and the political conflicts between ZANU-PF and
civil society and the MDC. In responding to the second criticisms, the theology is deepened
through an examination of Miroslav Volf’s, Exclusion and Embrace, John de Gruchy’s,
Reconciliation: Restoring Justice, the Kairos Document and the Belhar Confession.
Reconciliation was seen to lie at the edge of two parallel truths; justice and forgiveness; truth
and reconciliation.
In conclusion, the study established the basis for a deeper theology of reconciliation, by
focusing on three key areas: social dynamics, theological reflection, and practical and logistical
steps to national reconciliation. For a deeper theology of reconciliation, seven levels for
reconciliation were suggested: individual, social, cultural, institutional, political, theological
and religious. From these seven levels, two strategies for the practice of reconciliation were
suggested: ecumenical and strategic partnerships.
It should be noted that events in Zimbabwe continue to progress at a rapid rate and the social
context changes from week to week. However, these current events suggest that the study
remains relevant for national reconciliation and theological praxis because of the abiding issues
of conflict that cry out for reconciliation. / Thesis (M.Th.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2008.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:netd.ac.za/oai:union.ndltd.org:ukzn/oai:http://researchspace.ukzn.ac.za:10413/207 |
| Date | January 2008 |
| Creators | Masengwe, Gift. |
| Contributors | De Gruchy, Steve M. |
| Source Sets | South African National ETD Portal |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis |
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