Introduction to African Religion

This is THE starting point for inquiry into African Religion. Its written with enough familiarity and distance to make you feel comfortable...that is it wont scare you away while you're deciding if "african religion is for me". its actually written as a classroom text, complete with Q & A sections. i have read it at least 5 times over the years and i thoroughly enjoy it each time. i recommend it to any that is presently considering practicing an african religion.

Mbiti has done a great job with the organization of this book. This book is very easy to just sit down and read for anyone, not just students. There is not a whole lot of texts that can provide insight into the world of African religions but Mbiti has put together a text that allows one to study the riches of the African hertiage. When a book like this is written it helps to put down the numberous stereotypes about the way Africans live there life. He does not go into great detail about any one culture specifically but shows how religion functions in their daily life.

If you have ever wanted to know about the religions of Africa in general, this is the book for you. This is sort of the beginners guide to African religions and spirituality. Its worth noting that this book focuses on the religions native to Africa, but does give some brief mention of Islam and Christianity as well as the role that other religions play in Africa today. Mbiti certainly knows what he is talking about, and gives us a overviews of some of the common themes and ideas that are widespread in African religion, and the ceremonies and customs that are still present in Africa. And, as he points out, almost all African religions are monotheistic. However, the part which I liked the most was the section of African proverbs at the end. If you would like to learn more about African religion, I suggest that you look at this book.