Original Research - Special Collection: Reception of Biblical Discourse in Africa

The discourse on the intersectionality of religion and HIV and AIDS with specific reference to Thulamela municipality, Limpopo province

Tshifhiwa S. Netshapapame, Azwihangwisi Mavhandu-Mudzusi, Anza Ndou
HTS Teologiese Studies / Theological Studies | Vol 77, No 1 | a6951 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/hts.v77i1.6951 | © 2021 Tshifhiwa S. Netshapapame, Azwihangwisi Mavhandu-Mudzusi, Anza Ndou | This work is licensed under CC Attribution 4.0
Submitted: 25 June 2021 | Published: 30 November 2021

About the author(s)

Tshifhiwa S. Netshapapame, Department of Health Studies, Office of Research and Graduate Studies, College of Human Sciences, University of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa
Azwihangwisi Mavhandu-Mudzusi, Department of Health Studies, Office of Research and Graduate Studies, College of Human Sciences, University of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa
Anza Ndou, Department of Psychology, College of Human Sciences, University of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa

Abstract

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) since its genesis has continued to affect a large number of the population in the African region and has caused exponential deaths. At the same time, new infections have been reported in South Africa. However, religion as a vehicle of change through the institution of the church has been acting on the contrary, since it discourages the use of condoms (one of the most effective ways to prevent HIV) and moralising the pelvic area in its characterisation against the commandment of God. Such a perspective has largely been drawn from the Christian doctrine(s). We argue that in its condemnation and moralisation of the virus, the church, through its pastors, engaged in biblical discourse (preaching).

Contribution: The article applies a qualitative phenomenological approach and system theory as theoretical lenses. Furthermore, the article locates the study within Christian communities located in Thulamela Municipality, Limpopo province. It proposes Christian practices that can be useful in combating the virus.


Keywords

HIV and AIDS; preaching; discourse; moralisation; religion; religio-cultural beliefs; communities and Christian communities

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