Black Religiosity: A Biblical and Historical Perspective
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The Africans arrival to America was unique from all other immigrants who came to this country; it was that of slavery. In this writer’s opinion, this system was man’s inhumanity to humanity ( enslaved Africans ), One of the restrictions placed on the newly arriving African slaves was that of no religious activity. The initial justification for that prohibition was that the slaves were sub humans and had no soul, therefore, they needed no exposure to religion.. The slaves, in response to the mandate, devised a method to hold secret worship late at night far away from the home of their owner. Their gathering place for worship was known as the Undefrground Church. They were, therefore, able to experience Black Religiosity even in the confines of slavery.
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About the Book
Even though the practice of religion was outlawed for slaves beginning in the early 1600s, they often met in secret to worship; nothing could erase their belief in God and their commitment to family. In Black Religiosity: A Biblical and Historical Perspective, Dr. E. G. Sherman presents a collection of essays focusing on the eclectic religious experiences of the African American people from the beginning of slavery in 1619 through emancipation in 1863.
Through these previously voiced sermons and lectures, Sherman documents the fact that African descendants were exposed to and participated in Christianity even before the advent of slavery. It communicates the emphasis the enslaved people placed on God as they coped with inhumane conditions and how their faith, prayer, and worship helped them survive and leave a legacy.
Black Religiosity: A Biblical and Historical Perspective serves as a practical resource and reference reviewing the early black religious experiences and the importance of that spiritual anchor.
About the Author
E. G. Sherman Jr., PhD, earned three doctorate degrees. He is a professor emeritus of sociology, history, and philosophy from Albany State University; former vice president of a seminary; and founding pastor of Institutional First Baptist Church, Albany, Georgia. Visit him online at www.biblicalechoes.com.