Developing Guidelines for Functional Substitutes for Ugandan Marriage Practices

Problem Since the introduction of Christianity in Uganda there has been a tension between customary and Christian marriage practices, each struggling to exist at the expense of the other. The crux of the struggle is the validity and sufficiency of customary marriage vis-a-vis Christian marriage rites. Christian youth of marriageable age have been caught in the crossfire, and marital stability has been one of the casualties of the struggle. This study suggests bridging the gap between the two practices. Method Biblical teaching on marriage is established through exegesis of texts such as Gen 2:20-24, Matt 19:4-6, and 1 Cor 7. The nature and significance of Ganda customary marriage are ascertained from various ethnologies. A process of critical contextualization is suggested, by which customary marriage is evaluated in the light of biblical teaching, leading to the creation of appropriate functional substitutes. Conclusion The aim of the critical contextualization approach is to develop a marriage practice that is biblical and authentically African, one that responds to indigenous needs and concerns. This approach will in the long run enhance marital stability as well as people\u27s commitment to Christian teaching