Polygamy and the teachings of the Church : the case of the Anglican Diocese of Tamale

Abstract

The subject of polygamy has become extremely controversial in Ghana, and there seems to be little consensus on the problem, particularly among African Christians within the Anglican Diocese of Tamale. A particular challenge is faced when adherence to a biblical position on marriage is set against the traditions of the local culture. The problem investigated in this research is the unresolved conflict in the minds of many in the church, between the teaching of the Anglican Church on marriage and the cultural practices in which many have been raised. Adopting a biblical and pastoral approach, this study presents an analysis of biblical statements on marriage, together with some pastoral, theological and practical perspectives. Additionally, it presents the results of a questionnaire administered to a representative sample of two hundred people, including a majority of Christians together with other influential individuals in the Diocese of Tamale. The study finds that there is great variety in how people in this population understand the will of God on marriage and whether the Bible expresses the will of God on polygamy. It finds that monogamy has well established biblical roots, being instituted by God from the beginning of creation, but that most Christians follow the customary or traditional practices rather than the biblical teachings. Through a critical review of the biblical evidence, scholarly research, and views expressed by the respondents to the questionnaire, monogamy rather than polygamy has been established to be the ideal form of marriage. One purpose of the study is therefore, to contribute to a better understanding of polygamy in Africa, using the Anglican Diocese of Tamale as a case study. Another purpose is to provide a theological framework for the subject. The study therefore recommends that the Anglican Church should consider a re-examination of its teachings and policies on polygamy by enhancing the knowledge of its clergy on what the Bible says about polygamy, by correcting some misunderstandings of scientific facts, by considering research on the social disadvantages of polygamy, and by establishing pre-marital and post-marital teaching for couples.