The Kikuyu Belief System of Taboo: A Refreshing Alternative to Western Religion Guided by Individual Conscience

 

IN BRIEF:

• The Kikuyu belief system is a unique expression of spirituality that emphasizes individual autonomy and personal responsibility for one's actions. 
• Kikuyus believe in direct communication with their divine being, MweneNyaga, and cultivate a constant connection with those who have passed on. 
• Their gender roles value the spiritual roles of men and women equally. Their System of Taboo is guided by individual conscience rather than enforced by any priesthood. 
• Finally, their approach to death and the afterlife is focused on honoring ancestors and the continuation of life in a different form, rather than individual salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. 
• These differences highlight the importance of understanding and respecting diverse religious beliefs and practices.

The Kikuyu people have a unique system of beliefs and practices that differ significantly from Western Christianity. At the core of their belief system is individual autonomy and personal responsibility for one's moral actions and choices.

According to a renowned Kikuyu cultural scholar and expert, the Mûgîkûyû adhere to a "Belief System of Taboo" (mîgiro), a code of behavior that is guided by individual conscience rather than enforced by any priesthood. 

This system governs behavior in a way that emphasizes respect for others and the environment. This contrasts sharply with Western Christianity, which demands that individuals surrender their spiritual individuality and freedom to a dictatorial priesthood that dictates every aspect of their lives.

The Kikuyu people believe in communing directly with their divine being, MweneNyaga. They believe in cultivating a constant connection with those who have passed on. 

The belief in direct communication with MweneNyaga highlights the Kikuyu's focus on individual spirituality and the autonomy of their relationship with their divine being. They do not rely on an intermediary, such as a priesthood or clergy, to connect with their god.

Kikuyus also have unique gender roles in their belief system. The man is considered the High Priest in his own home, while the woman is the High Altar on which the man performs the Great Home Sacrifice. 

This is an example of how the Kikuyu value both the spiritual roles of men and women equally. This contrasts with Western Christianity, where women have historically been excluded from leadership positions in the church, and their roles have been limited to supportive roles.

Another significant difference between the Kikuyu belief system and Western Christianity is their approach to death and the afterlife. The Kikuyus believe in cultivating a constant connection with those who have passed on. 

They believe that death is not the end but a continuation of life in a different form. They honor their ancestors by performing rituals and offerings to them. 

In contrast, Western Christianity's approach to death and the afterlife is heavily influenced by the concept of sin and salvation. The focus is on individual salvation through faith in Jesus Christ and the attainment of eternal life in heaven.