Polygamy and Christian Identity in Tiv Culture

Abstract

For many centuries, polygamy in Tiv culture, and by extension, in Africa, is considered as a barbaric and an uncivilized form of marriage. By contrast, monogamy which is promoted by Christianity is preferred and favored as a civilized form of marriage. This essay investigates the reasons for polygamous marriage in Tiv culture and the challenges faced by polygamous families in their practice of Christianity. To achieve this aim, the cultural understanding of polygamous marriage, and the theology of monogamous marriage in Christianity will be explored in detail to have a holistic view of the subject matter/ongoing debate about polygamy and monogamy in our contemporary society.