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"What's Up With "Kwanzaa?"
By Pastor John E. Coleman B.A.  M.A.  Edited December 2010
Kwanzaa A Perspective For Many African Americans

From A Biblical Pastor's Perspective:

I've been accused of not loving the brothers enough because I do not ascribe to the practice of Kwanzaa in the local church. I would ask this of the many Pastors. Just this one lone question. If Jesus was here, would he affirm our practice of this in place of all of the sayings and dictates that He has prescribed? If the Pastor is not able to answer that one, why should we permit the practice of something that outright speaks against much of what we practice in the Christian faith? What would your pastor answer if asked the question? Would you dare ask him? If not, why not? Next time I plan to address the question of those in the church that have raised objection to these practices, what has happened to the ones that spoke out against this? Do you know some of these people? Could it be that there is some kind of conspiracy to keep silent those that object to such practices? We shall look into this next time. Enjoy the reading.

Commentary: I love the community that I live in. I also love the arts and crafts, the language culture that comes from a community that has always striven to be the best that it can be as it reflects pride in themselves. When something new arrives on the scene of my community, I must be fully aware of what that something is. Is it not right to investigate certain practices within my community with skepticism following that, provide criticism that will stand up under rational analysis? As I go through this process of analysis I must at the same time define the world view of this particular belief system through the grid of the bible. These kinds of analysis are expected from a Christian regardless of the racial background of the Believer.

You see my Christianity is the force which determines what is right and wrong concerning modern day worship. I would ask you to think along with me concerning this issue of "Kwanzaa" as an intelligent Christian who is only in a search God's truth. It would be wrong and basically prejudicial to view Kwanzaa from a bias view without first investigating its origin. Every belief derives from a particular world view. These world views determine what a person or a group of persons believe, and that belief is appropriate to those persons believing it.

I believe no other person has the right to say or even imply that any group of persons ought not hold to a particular belief system. This ministry and the mind set of it's leader, shall never dis-allow individuals to hold to any particular belief. As long we live in America one can believe what ever they choose to believe, I would pray that what ever that belief is that is would never be used to harm or falsely convey ideas of another person. Let me clarify. If one believes in a particular way, I will fight for their right to retain that belief. I believe that American liberty is what that is all about. But, what of this Kwanzaa, Can we say that this is biblical? That is the sole objective of my placing these writings up every year.

I will never for the purpose of self advancement come against any persons individual belief for reasons other than clarification of the biblical standard. This ministry deals with Christian apologetics. This discussion is dealing with the teaching that many in the African American Community have embraced as a new spirituality which is in the opinion of this Christian far from the teaching of the "Biblical Perspective".

Will the African American Family read the Bible and let it speak loud and clear on the subject matter set before us?

Exodus 20:3 Thou shalt have no other gods before me.

Deuteronomy 6:14 Ye shall not go after other gods, of the gods of the peoples that are round about you;

2nd Kings 17:35 with whom Jehovah had made a covenant, and charged them, saying, Ye shall not fear other gods, nor bow yourselves to them, nor serve them, nor sacrifice to them:

Jeremiah 25:6 and go not after other gods to serve them, and to worship them, and provoke me not to anger with the work of your hands; and I will do you no hurt.

Jeremiah 35:15 I have sent also unto you all my servants the prophets, rising up early and sending them, saying, Return ye now every man from his evil way, and amend your doings, and go not after other gods to serve them, and ye shall dwell in the land which I have given to you and to your fathers: but ye have not inclined your ear, nor hearkened unto me.

We therefore are to be careful that our investigation into other cultural identities never remove us from the tried and verified teachings of the scriptures. We must also keep in mind that if we do not have a firm grasp upon that which is true, we are more apt to fall into decline as we compromise the teachings of the scriptures as we flow with the culture further away from the God of the Holy Bible. Many people within the inner city community as well as those in rural areas; have become solidified in a secular world view during Christmas time. Year after year there are more questions that have to be answered. Those ideas of Christianity have stood he test of time and eternity. Our traditional way of thinking about God, the Christ child and this time of the year is now questioned and challenged by many within the church. The switch has taken place. Lets compare the teachings of "Christ and Kwanzaa"

First, lets allow a definition of what Kwanzaa from someone that believes in its significance. I will read the definition as I received it from another web site. I shall provide the definition without tampering what the author's point of view.

Defining Kwanzaa By Bill Smith

Every year for seven days, beginning December 26 to January 1, African Americans celebrate their heritage and honor the traditions of their ancestors during a season called Kwanzaa. It is an expression of unity and positive values in our struggle for equality in America. The important aspect of this holiday is for African Americans plan for the year to come and working on ways to make themselves a better people and their communities a better communities.

In 1966, Dr. Maulana "Ron" Karenga, a major contributor to black nationalist ideology during the 1960’s, created this cultural holiday based upon ancient African customs. After the Watts riots, Dr. Karenga, who felt his people had lost touch with their African heritage began to research ancient African ceremonies and celebrations.. He wanted to unify and instill in them a sense of pride in their culture. He studied the cultures of the Yorubas, Ibos, Ashantis, Zulus, and a variety of other African ethnic groups. Although each group celebrated a little differently, there were many things the festivals had in common. He felt that there should be a special time during the year set aside for this purpose, during which he incorporated many African customs traditions, symbols, and words from Swahili, a language spoken throughout East Africa and many other areas of the continent.

Kwanzaa, Swahili for first, Dr. Karenga added an "a" to create the name for the holiday. The prescribed rituals and ceremonies at the heart of the festive reflects African experiences, particularly the traditional agricultural festivals of first fruits and to honor the seven principles known in Swahili as, Nguza Saba. This involves a special set of goals to be memorized, discussed, and achieved during Kwanzaa and throughout the year. The harvest festival was a way of rewarding each member of the tribe for all of their contributions during the year where everyone, including children and the elderly, had a job to do.

By working together, hence the Swahili word, Harambee, everyone had food to eat for the whole year. The tribal leader said a prayer for each member of the tribe and also gave honor to the tribal ancestors. After the ceremony, there was feasting, music and dancing which lasted till the wee hours of the morning.

Kwanzaa is a celebration of the past present and future. A time for all African Americans to join together as a family, community and a nation. It is an event that inspires one to practice the things studied so that they can be guided all year long. The principles, symbols, and ceremonies that are a part of this uniquely African American event celebrate the beauty of working together as one for the good of the community. Hence the Swahili word, Harambee. The proverb often quoted during Kwanzaa celebrations is, I am because we are, because we are, I am.

Bill Smith (Mr. Smith Believes this is a valid concept)

The Various Definitions Of The Days Of Kwanzaa

Principals Of Kwanzaa

# 1 Umoja (U-mo-ja) Unity

Symbolized by lighting the black candle in the center of the kinara, Umoja (U-mo-ja) is the first principle of Kwanzaa. It encourages us to work for togetherness in our family, the community in which we live, and our nation.

One God! One Aim! One Destiny! Marcus Garvey

# 2 KUJICHAGULIA (Ku-ji-cha-gu-lia) Self-determination

The second principle of Kwanzaa is (Ku-ji-cha-gu-lia)

Kujichagulia which is symbolized by lighting the first red candle on the kinara. It encourages us to define, create and learn traditions about ourselves rather than allow ourselves to be defined by others.

We have been named; we should now become "namers" Lerone Bennett, Jr

# 3 UJIMA (U-ji-ma) Collective Work and Responsibility

Symbolized by lighting the first green candle on the kinara, (U-ji-ma) implies that African-Americans must work together for the betterment of our communities. Key to growth as a community is the spirit of co-operation.

# 4 UJAMAA (U-ja-ma) Cooperative Economics

The fourth principle of Kwanzaa is U-ja-ma Ujamaa, symbolized by lighting the second red candle on the kinara. Ujamaa is based on the concept that African-Americans must own, support and maintain Black businesses. To build viable institutions within the African-American community that will speak for the collective and defend our interests, we must pool our resources together and participate in the spirit of Ujamaa.

At the bottom of education...there must be economic independence. Booker T. Washington

#5 NIA (Ni-a) Purpose

The fifth symbol of Kwanzaa, Ni-a Nia, is symbolized by lighting the second green candle on the kinara. Nia involves recognizing that we all posses a divine purpose and taking the responsibility to develop to our potential.

#6 KUUMBA (Ku-um-ba) Creativity

The sixth principle of Kwanzaa, Ku-um-ba Kuumba is symbolized by lighting the last red candle on the kinara. It challenges us to use our God-given talents in a way to strengthen, enlighten and uplift our people and all we come in contact with.

#7 IMANI (I-mani) Faith

Symbolized by lighting the last green candle on the kinara, I-mani Imani encourages us to have faith in the creator and our people. To believe in God, our parents and our family, leaders and the goodness and victory of our struggle.

Now lets look at my response to Kwanzaa from the biblical perspective.

# 1 Umoja (U-mo-ja) Unity

Symbolized by lighting the black candle in the center of the kinara, Umoja (U-mo-ja) is the first principle of Kwanzaa. It encourages us to work for togetherness in our family, the community in which we live, and our nation.

As we read this definition of unity we must analyze what the word of God says about the term. If we are professing Believers we must do the work of comparison for the sake of not compromising the true standard that God has established throughout the generations of men. Lets look and see.

Psalm 133:1 "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is For brethren to dwell together in unity!"

What is this unity that the bible speaks of in this text?

(1) If it is the kind spoken of in Genesis 13:8 "And Abram said unto Lot, Let there be no strife, I pray thee, between me and thee, and between my herdsmen and thy herdsmen; for we are brethren." (I do not have a problem, but please keep in mind that we are to have this with all mankind, for the bible says that all mankind are brothers; 1st John 3:15 "Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him."

(2) Thus we understand that the world has a way of displaying a brotherhood of humanity.

(3) Acts 4:32 " And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and soul: and not one [of them] said that aught of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common."

(4) Romans 12:16 " Be of the same mind one toward another. Set not your mind on high things, but condescend to things that are lowly. Be not wise in your own conceits."

(5) Romans 14:19 " So then let us follow after things which make for peace, and things whereby we may edify one another."

(6) 2nd Cor. 13:11 "Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfected; be comforted; be of the same mind; live in peace: and the God of love and peace shall be with you."

We can see that by the use of these scriptures alone, and needless to say this does not exhaust the theme of a unity of persons in the bible. We do not require as Christians a theme of unity in Kwanzaa in order to fulfill the biblical mandate.

If we are not Christian, I think that the person should seek to use what ever they can to bring about a better life. If you as a reader require this in order to live a better life; great. If you are a Believer, read your bible. Study it, believe it, the Lord will assist you as well as sustain you in that belief.

# 2 KUJICHAGULIA (Ku-ji-cha-gu-lia) Self-determination

The second principle of Kwanzaa is (Ku-ji-cha-gu-lia)

Kujichagulia which is symbolized by lighting the first red candle on the kinara. It encourages us to define, create and learn traditions about ourselves rather than allow ourselves to be defined by others. We have been named; we should now become "namers" Lerone Bennett, Jr

Now many of you might ask what is the matter with this, the bible does not teach this does it? Lets investigate.

(1) Deut. 29:18 " lest there should be among you man, or woman, or family, or tribe, whose heart turneth away this day from Jehovah our God, to go to serve the gods of those nations; lest there should be among you a root that beareth gall and wormwood;"

I believe that the script for the believer warns us concerning turning away from our God of confidence. This is a warning of going after other gods.

(2) Psalm 36:2 "For he flattereth himself in his own eyes, That his iniquity will not be found out and be hated." Oh well if we cannot see what the meaning of this verse is there is just no hope. Please keep in mind that the bible has all the resources for Christian behavior. Our confidence does not come from a false sense of security deep within ourselves.

Genesis 11:4 " And they said, Come, let us build us a city, and a tower, whose top [may reach] unto heaven, and let us make us a name; lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth." We see how this venture turned out. We are warned to be careful about determining our own benefit. See writing below:

Today I will be handling all of your problems. Please remember that I do not need your help. If life happens to deliver a situation to you that you cannot handle, do not attempt to resolve it. Kindly put it in the SFGTD (something for God to do) It will be addressed in My time, not yours. Once the matter is placed into the box, do not hold on to it. If you find yourself stuck in traffic; Don't despair. There are people in this world for whom driving is an unheard of privilege. Should you have a bad day at work; Think of the man who has been out of work for years. Should you despair over a relationship gone bad; Think of the person who has never known what it's like to love and be loved in return. Should you grieve the passing of another weekend; Think of the woman in dire straits, working twelve hours a day, seven days a week to feed her children. Should your car break down, leaving you miles away from assistance; Think of the paraplegic who would love the opportunity to take that walk. Should you notice a new gray hair in the mirror; Think of the cancer patient in chemo who wishes she had hair to examine. Should you find yourself at a loss and pondering what is life all about, asking what is my purpose? Be thankful. There are those who didn't live long enough to get the opportunity. Should you find yourself the victim of other people's bitterness, ignorance, smallness or insecurities; Remember, things could be worse. You could be them!

I think we can see by the use of these words that all determination comes from a God that knows what is better for our lives. Kwanzaa does not work here either. God has already taken care of all of it, we must find ourselves obeying and ascribing to His (God's) demands in our lives.

# 3 UJIMA (U-ji-ma) Collective Work and Responsibility

Symbolized by lighting the first green candle on the kinara, (U-ji-ma) implies that African-Americans must work togther for the betterment of our communities. Key to growth as a community is the spirit of co-operation.

Simply put I believe that we should look at the book of Acts 2:45; " and they sold their possessions and goods and distributed them to all, as any had need"

Parted them to all men. On this special liberality we may note, (1) It partly arose from the non-resident or pilgrim character of a large part of the converts. (2) It was not an obligatory rule; the laws of ownership or property were not disturbed or questioned. Even Ananias might have kept all his land unblamed [Ac 5:3,4]. Also see;

* Sold Ac 4:34-37; 5:1; 11:29; Lu 12:33; 16:9; 18:22; 19:8

· parted. Ps 112:9; Pr 11:24; 19:17; Ec 11:1,2; Isa 58:7-12; 2Co 9:1,9 1Ti 6:18,19; Jas 2:14-16; 5:1-5; 1Jo 3:17

Thus we see this concept throughout the teachings of scriptures that saints always worked together for the betterment of the whole community.

# 4 UJAMAA (U-ja-ma) Cooperative Economics

The fourth principle of Kwanzaa is U-ja-ma Ujamaa, symbolized by lighting the second red candle on the kinara. Ujamaa is based on the concept that African-Americans must own, support and maintain Black businesses. To build viable institutions within the African-American community that will speak for the collective and defend our interests, we must pool our resources together and participate in the spirit of Ujamaa. At the bottom of education...there must be economic independence. Booker T. Washington

Honestly I desired to find something in the New testament that came close to telling me that this is an "ought to happen event". Being honest I had to go to the Jewish community and the covenant promises that God had for Israel. Upon close observation and honest evaluation of every biblical text, I can find nothing that even remotely suggest the Christian community getting itself involved in economics, and rightly so, God tells us that if a man does not work, he ought not eat; See; 1Ti 5:8 "But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel." {house: or, kindred}

Also see; 2 Th 3:10 "For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work neither should he eat."

I believe that the age old proverb applies in this case. I am my brothers keeper, but not for the sake of his gaining financial security.

#5 NIA (Ni-a) Purpose

The fifth symbol of Kwanzaa, Ni-a Nia, is symbolized by lighting the second green candle on the kinara. Nia involves recognizing that we all posses a divine purpose and taking the responsibility to develop to our potential.

Now this aspect was not difficult to come upon. Each of us as Believer has the responsibility of maintaining spiritual growth and maturity.

See; Joh 17:17,19; Ac 26:17,18; Ro 15:16; 1Co 1:2,30; 6:11; 13:1-13; 2Co 1:21,22; Ga 2:20; 6:14; Eph 1:3, Each of these text deals with the Christian's ability to grow or to become mature. This is the divine purpose that God has for all of us in this life.

#6 KUUMBA (Ku-um-ba) Creativity

The sixth principal of Kwanzaa, Ku-um-ba Kuumba is symbolized by lighting the last red candle on the kinara. It challenges us to use our God-given talents in a way to strengthen, enlighten and uplift our people and all we come in contact with.

We gain fulfillment of this idea as a Believer when we look to Ephesians 4:11-12 Our first responsibility is to the building up of the body of Christ, then we are to put forth an effortless attempt to persuade the non-believing world to access the true spiritual resources that has been outlined through the scriptures which is the only way to biblical salvation.

#7 IMANI (I-mani) Faith

Symbolized by lighting the last green candle on the kinara, I-mani Imani encourages us to have faith in the creator and our people. To believe in God, our parents and our family, leaders and the goodness and victory of our struggle.

Now I ran into a few more problems with this as a spiritual idea. What of the other cultures that might need our expertise, assistance, advice and the other things that make for wholeness. Are we to only offer assistance to those of our culture alone? What does the bible say about these kinds of ideas?

See; Acts 10:34 "Then Peter opened his mouth, and said Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:

Even when we quote this verse within the proper context I never see the Lord dealing with race and culture the way that we do in this modern era. There is a plain and simple theme that runs through the teachings of the scriptures. That theme simply is that "God has provided all that we require for the fulfillment of our personhood as found in a relationship with Jesus Christ".

So, where do you stand on this issue? Each of us must determine the rightness of a belief system by our personal undertaking as we research new ideas. These activities must precede the Apologist argument. We ought not condemn a belief system simply because we do not agree with it. We must be able to clearly delineate our reasons and then state the rightness of the argument.

The concept and "7" laws are nice, but they are not biblical. God had nothing to do with their origin. The better question is should this practice be accepted as a part of our Christian belief system? We must answer the question only in light of the truth by which we have received biblical salvation. Is the Lord's saving of our souls enough? The Lord had nothing to do with this idea of Kwanzaa. We must as Believers never become accustomed to following the crowd as they deny those traditional Biblical teachings. Pastor John E. Coleman 12-22-06

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