Biblical Interpretations in Zimbabwean Politics from 2000 to 2016

Abstract

This article is a contribution to the ongoing discussion on the relationship between religion and politics. The article did so by focusing mainly on the interpretation of the Bible to serve Zimbabwe African National Union (ZANU-PF) political ideology in Zimbabwean politics from year 2000 to 2016. The article presented the interpretations of the Bible in light of the broader context of not only Zimbabwean or African but also global political arena. It however narrowed the discussion to the interpretations of the Bible proffered by ZANU-PF leadership and its supporters. Needless to say, the Movement of democratic Change (MDC-T) opposed such ZANU-PF interpretations while the majority of scholars on Zimbabwean politics accuse only ZANU PF of having the habit to ‘abuse’ Christianity. The Bible, pastors, traditional leaders and religious gatherings. This article provided evidence that all major political parties in Zimbabwe were involved in the habit. Evidence was adduced from media; both print and electronic especially social media: WhatsApp, Facebook and Youtube. Few political rallies and prayer gatherings were attended by the researcher which also inform the conclusions of the article. The purpose of the article was neither to endorse nor to condemn the interpretations of the Bible either by ZANU-PF or the MDC-T or any other political party in Zimbabwe. It is the responsibility of the readers to judge for themselves as regards whether what was done by the political parties in Zimbabwe was right or wrong for the Zimbabwean politics and religion.