Abstract:
This article examines the phrase, tosoutō kreittōn genomenos tōn angelōn (Heb 1:4a) (having
become as much superior to the angels) in the exordium of the epistle to the Hebrews in the
light of Ewe angelology. The article employs both comparative and mother tongue
hermeneutical approaches as its methodologies. An exegetical analysis of the cosmic
superiority of Christ over angels in Hebrews 1:4a was carried out to situate the text in its
historical and literary contexts. This was followed by an excursus on angels to explore the
angelic world of the text, and a comparative discussion with angelology motif in Ewe
cosmology. Finally, the article assesses the cosmic supremacy of Christ over the angelic world
of the Ewe against the backdrop of the continuous quest for spiritual protection in EweGhanaian spirituality today. The quest for spiritual protection in popular Ewe-Ghanaian
Christianity today stems from the perception that Christ’s cosmic superiority over the cosmos
he created and owns including angelic beings alone is not enough and that one would need to
resort to other mediums to enhance access to God for quicker solutions to one’s predicaments.
This has resulted in the introduction of syncretic elements in spirituality. To cure the syncretic
elements in Ewe Christian spirituality, this article makes the following proposals: Firstly, the
preaching (kerygma) and teaching (didache) of the gospel message must be given priority in the
pulpit. Secondly, Christian educators must constantly emphasise Christ’s superiority and his
exclusive mediatory function over Ewe cosmic beings to ensure that old and new converts to
Christianity view him alone as sufficient for their spiritual development.
CONTRIBUTION: The article contributes to the academic knowledge of the priestly Christology in
Hebrews situating it within the context of mother tongue biblical hermeneutics.
