Browsing by Author "Solomons, Demaine"

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    The absurdity of reconciliation. What we (should) learn from Rustenburg and the implications for South Africa
    (Pieter de Waal Neethling Trust, 2020) Solomons, Demaine
    The quest for reconciliation in South Africa is an exercise in the absurd. To say it is an exercise for the absurd might also have some merit. Like Sisyphus, the figure in Greek mythology, those engaged in the quest for reconciliation are condemned to repeat forever the same, in some cases, meaningless task of pushing a boulder up a mountain only to see it roll down again. This is amid the human propensity to forever search for meaning irrespective of the incongruity of the ideal and the absurdity that defines our existence. The illogicality of apartheid and the subsequent pain and alienation continues to be a defining feature of a country trying to come to terms not what it ought to be, but what it is � chaotic, irrational and sometimes meaningless. In this context, Rustenburg is a symbol of the audacity to dream of something beyond the absurd. Moreover, invoking a theology of reconciliation to achieve something extraordinary amid an uncertain future.
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    Black theologies of liberation: how should black lives matter theologically?
    (The Ecumenical Review, 2022) Nadar, Sarojini; Solomons, Demaine
    This article introduces this thematic issue of The Ecumenical Review, which originates from a colloquium hosted at the University of the Western Cape on Black theologies. Our aim is to propose a set of theological frames through which to consider the 11 articles presented here, as well as the study of Black theology in general. We propose that Black theologies of liberation can be understood within three theological frameworks: a theology of resistance that encompasses both the social and epistemic, a theology of existence that focuses on Black consciousness and identity, and a theology of solidarity that fully embraces African feminist and queer theological perspectives. What the contributors to this issue on Black theology succeed in doing is ushering in new ways of thinking about the subject. Not only do they open new frontiers for theorizing and conceptualizing the gospel in light of Black experiences, but they also challenge the exclusionary nature of the old frontiers, calling to attention how even liberation discourses can sometimes reinscribe hegemony.
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    The Belhar confession as a conduit for an emerging theological agenda: rethinking black liberation theology in post-apartheid South Africa
    (Universty of the Western Cape, 2024) Sosanti, Bonginkosi; Solomons, Demaine
    This study examines the interconnection between Black liberation theology and the Belhar Confession, illustrating how the Belhar Confession serves as a vital tool in shaping a contemporary theological agenda for Black liberation. The existing body of literature suggests that the Belhar Confession emerged as a response to the Dutch Reformed Church’s endorsement of apartheid laws and policies, confronting its apparent hypocrisy. However, from the researcher’s perspective, the essence of the Belhar Confession extends beyond a mere reaction to apartheid. It represents a return to the authentic Gospel of liberation, echoed and embodied within the scriptures. Consequently, the Belhar Confession transcends its historical context, offering a timeless framework and guide for achieving liberation, even in the contemporary context.