Batswana and the miracles of Jesus : a social-anthropological study

Abstract

This study presents a decolonial re-interpretation of Jesus identity by employing a Tswana Ngaka (diviner) as both a heuristic and analogical tool. It challenges the dominant Western interpretations that tend to limit Jesus to a singular role, most often that of a healer or miracle worker, by emphasizing the rich, multidimensional nature of His identity, particularly within the gospel of Mark. With social-scientific criticism as a methodology and social anthropology as a theoretical framework, the research explores the socio-cultural background of first century Mediterranean society and draws meaningful comparisons with the traditional roles of the Ngaka in the Tswana culture. The study utilizes both direct and indirect analogical models to explore cross-cultural insights. While direct analogies examine figures from Jesus’ own historical and cultural setting in the ancient Mediterranean world, indirect analogies engage with the Tswana cultural perspective of Ngaka as a healer, community leader, spiritual guide, and restorer of harmony. Ethnographic methods, including interviews and focus group discussions with Tswana diviners and elders, enriched this comparative analysis, and grounded the research in lived African experiences. The findings demonstrate that, much like the Ngaka, Jesus was deeply engaged in the social, spiritual, and communal life of His context, restoring individuals to community life, challenging systems of oppression, and providing holistic healing. This perspective critiques the reductionist portrayals of Jesus and instead offers a more comprehensive understanding of Him as both divine and deeply human. In doing so, the study makes a significant contribution to African biblical scholarship by presenting a culturally rooted, decolonial reading of Jesus that resonates with African worldviews, especially those of Batswana. It further invites a broader intercultural engagement within historical Jesus’ research.