A theological reflection on the Akan doctrine of the human soul
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Keywords
Akan, kraa (soul), Christian theology, Nana Kwame Ampadu
Abstract
The Akan doctrine of the human soul (nipa-kraa) expresses indigenous Akan worldview and theology. As a contribution to the contextualization of Cristian theology within the Akan community, this paper explored the Akan doctrine of the soul and then reflects on this doctrine from a Christian theological perspective. The paper used a qualitative research approach through a critical review of relevant literature on the subject. In the process, the article analyzed selected portions of Nana Kwame Ampadu’s highlife song titled “Yaa Amanua” to provide further insights into the Akan understanding of the human soul. The article showed that Christianity can better serve the Akan community if indigenous ideas are connected to relevant aspects of the Christian faith.
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