ESSENCE: Interdisciplinary- International Journal of Concerned African Philosophers

This study examined the factors responsible for the persistence of subconscious traditional beliefs among Yoruba Christians in Ondo State, Nigeria. The study adopted a qualitative research design using a phenomenological approach to explore the lived experiences and perceptions of pastors regarding the interaction between Christian faith and traditional Yoruba beliefs. The population comprised pastors from selected Pentecostal and Orthodox churches across Ondo State. A purposive sampling technique, complemented by simple random sampling, was used to select sixty (60) pastors from the three senatorial districts of the state. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that the coexistence of Christian doctrine and traditional beliefs is reinforced by social, psychological, and spiritual factors. These include the psychological need for moral and spiritual balance, fear of ancestral influence, preservation of cultural identity, community and family expectations, and the pursuit of dual religious security. These factors highlight the complex interplay between personal spirituality, social obligations, and cultural continuity within Yoruba Christianity. The findings also indicated that churches can address these beliefs through sustained biblical teaching, awareness programmes, open discussions, contextualized discipleship, pastoral counseling, and the provision of relevant teaching materials. It recommends support programs that preserve Yoruba cultural heritage in art, language, and values without necessarily tying them to religious rituals that encourage syncretism. Facilitate platforms for interreligious and intercultural dialogue to promote mutual understanding and reduce tension between Christianity and indigenous.

Open Full Text (PDF)