THE NEXUS BETWEEN MARRIAGE IN THE OLD TESTAMENT AND IGBO TRADITIONAL MARRIAGE: IMPLICATIONS FOR AFFINITY AND CONSANGUINITY

Resumen

Marriage played a foundational role in both biblical and African traditional societies, serving as a key institution for maintaining social order and continuity. The Old Testament depicted marriage as a sacred covenant designed by God, with laws governing affinity and consanguinity to preserve family purity and societal stability (Genesis 2:24; Leviticus 18:6-18). Similarly, among the Igbo people of Nigeria, marriage remained deeply rooted in cultural and spiritual traditions, with regulations on kinship and affinity shaping marital choices and family structures. This study employed a qualitative research design to examine the nexus between Old Testament marital principles and Igbo traditional marriage, focusing on affinity and consanguinity. It relied on secondary sources of data, including biblical texts, scholarly articles, and anthropological studies, to analyze the similarities and differences between these two systems. The comparative analysis revealed that both traditions prioritized lineage continuity, moral propriety, and social cohesion. Additionally, the study explored theological and cultural perspectives that influenced marriage norms in both contexts, highlighting their implications for contemporary Igbo society. By engaging biblical exegesis and Igbo cultural anthropology, this research provided insights into the intersection of faith, tradition, and family dynamics. The findings suggested that aligning Igbo marriage customs with biblical principles could promote social harmony while preserving cultural identity. The study concluded by recommending a balanced approach that integrates biblical ethics with traditional values to strengthen family institutions and community relationships in Igbo society.