African Empires of Biblical Antiquity
What you'll learn
- How to define the biblical lands as an Afro-Asiatic world rather than the European definition of Middle East
- How to identify the great African Empires in the biblical accounts, and their contributions
- How to explain biblical anthropology and etymology through an African ancestral lens
- How to identify the historical attempts to de-Africanize the Biblical Story
- How to connect human origins to the African world from a biblical lens
- How the theological concept of divine election influences ethnic prejudice in history
- How the West African cultural anthropology connects with Egyptian/Hebrew religion and the biblical story
Requirements
- No prior experience needed
- Basic knowledge of the biblical stories of the Old Testament
Description
Throughout history, whether through deliberate action, ignorance or dismissive attitudes, a de-Africanized view of the Bible has been normalized. This course will challenge narratives that seek to diminish the black and African presence in the bible, and will show that it is in an Afro-Asiatic context that the events and stories of the bible occur. The great African empires of the bible will become more visible and prominent through these lectures. Part of the liberation and justice work on behalf of those classified as black is affirming the historical contributions to human history and religion by black or African civilizations which has been historically whitewashed. This course will analyze the Gen. 10, "Table of Nations," and will correct many common misnomers and inaccuracies about the descendants of Noah. It will also show the rise of the great African empires and their connection to the larger biblical narrative and tradition. The course will provide an Afrocentric view of what is meant by the term, "biblical lands," as one analyzes contemporary biblical maps. One of the problematic aspects of the way that the biblical story is perceived is the doctrine of divine election, and this course will show a better way of viewing Israel's history. It will answer questions such as: Where did the populations of the bible originate? Where did Noah's flood occur? and What African empires influenced Jewish history? You will be challenged with other perspectives as you study.
Who this course is for:
- Curious students of African antiquities who respect the biblical story
- Educators who seek a more inclusive focus of history
- Clergy who seek professional growth and life long learning
- Bible class facilitators who seek to highlight Africans and black people in the bible
Instructor
- 5.0 Instructor Rating
- 77 Reviews
- 1,560 Students
- 7 Courses
Eric Betts is Assistant Professor at Hampton University School of Religion. He also lectured at the Center for Religion Leadership and Culture at Athens State University in Athens AL for nearly a decade. He holds two Ph.D. degrees in Theology (University of South Africa and Louisiana Baptist University.) His second Ph.D. concentrated in black political theology. He is the pastor of Macedonia Baptist Church in Corinth MS and author of "Reconciliation--Geopolitical Perspectives of a Black Theologian." In 2023, he published his latest work entitled "Good Cop and Bad Cop--A Sociological and Theological Study on the Black Muslim Movement and the Black Church." He has written hundreds of articles in the Athens Now newspaper on topics relating to ethics, community leadership and interfaith dialogue.
By subscribing to these courses, you will learn from a world-renowned leader in the field. As a leading theologian, black studies scholar, and accomplished author, he brings a wealth of expertise and a unique perspective to his teachings. His courses delve into the intricacies of Christianity, black history and social justice, emphasizing the significant role of education in the pursuit of racial equality. Dr. Betts' in-depth knowledge and eloquent teaching style make complex theological and racial justice concepts accessible and engaging. His unique blend of biblical teachings, social justice principles, and contemporary racial issues make his courses an invaluable resource for learners seeking to deepen their understanding and engage with these important topics in a meaningful way. Join Dr. Betts to gain a comprehensive understanding of the intersections between Christian faith and justice.