JASSD Volume 9 Number 1 2026

EFFICACY OF SELECTED YORUBA SONG LYRICS IN TEACHING CHRISTIAN VALUES TO CHILDREN IN SUNDAY SCHOOL

Sunday Olufemi Akande, Ph.D
Abstract

The study examines and analysis some Yoruba song lyrics in teaching Christian values to children within Sunday School. Yoruba songs are situated within cultural, linguistic, and moral contexts and can be used as tools for Biblical messages through the medium of songs that are easily remembered and understood in a particular culture. An analysis of selected songs describes how music is involved in moral formation, spiritual development, and ethical teaching among children: "Semi ni'omo rere bi Samueli, " "Owo mi kò ń kóló, " and "Dawo Dawo." Results show that these songs enhance biblical literacy by turning abstract ideas into concrete, understandable forms; promote embodied learning via gestures and repetition; and reinforce communal values like obedience, respect for others' property stewardship, and honesty. This study brings out the very important role that culturally contextualized musical pedagogy plays in bridging gaps in Yoruba- language ecclesiastical resources toward holistic Christian education.

Keywords: Yoruba Song Lyrics, Teaching Christian Values, Children, Sunday School
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