The African Idea of the High God - Essay Example

Native religions have similar fundamental characteristics despite having different characteristics. Therefore, both the Native American and African religions share some common characteristics. Conversion to Islam and Christianity has been greatly facilitated by the element of a supreme being that characterized both American and Native American religion. This essay will therefore analyze the similarities and differences between Native American and African religions in terms of the idea high god. The essay also examines the role of the existence of a high god in both religions in conversion to Muslim and Christianity.
The concept of animism was common in both Native American and African religions. Animism is the belief, that natural phenomena or objects such as the sun, moon, or lightning contain souls and that they influence our lives. Both Native Americans and Africans worshiped objects in the universe such as the moon and sun (Neusner 87). In addition, both societies believed that some physical phenomena happened due to their behaviors. Both societies believed that nature was alive with a spirit and, that they could communicate with nature. For example, people of the Zuni clan were very religious, they worship nature and believed in spirits. Therefore, astronomical objects formed part of society’s gods. In addition, both American and African societies believed in the power and existence of their ancestors. It was a common belief in both societies that ancestors were in control of events happening in current times.
Although both the Native American and African societies shared similar values concerning the Supreme Being, they had outstanding differences in their religious practices. For instance, Americans had a hierarchical system of gods that dictated the order of supremacy and their roles. On the other, hand most African societies regarded their supreme beings equally. Native Americans believed that all creations were supreme. For example, hunting was only done when needed and people were not allowed to kill animals aimlessly. In addition, hunters were supposed to pray before killing an animal since animals were considered sacred beings.
Although Native American and African religions had outstanding differences, the element of Supreme Being in both religions contributed to their conversion to Christianity and Islam respectively. Read More