EXAMINATION OF THE ETHICS AND THEOLOGY OF IN VITRO FERTILIZATION IN LIGHT OF OLD TESTAMENT FERTILITY NARRATIVES WITHIN THE AFRICAN CONTEXT

Abstract

This paper examines the ethical and theological dimensions of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) in light of Old Testament fertility narratives within the African context. Fertility in African societies is deeply intertwined with cultural and religious values, often seen as governed by divine or spiritual forces. The Old Testament offers key narratives, such as those of Sarah, Rachel, and Hannah, where fertility is portrayed as a divine gift, highlighting God's sovereignty over reproduction. These stories resonate with African Christian communities, where infertility is also understood as a spiritual matter. IVF presents an ethical challenge by introducing medical intervention into what has traditionally been a domain of divine control. Through an exegetical study of these biblical texts, this paper explores the implications of IVF for African Christian communities, offering a nuanced understanding of how biblical theology and African fertility beliefs intersect in evaluating reproductive technologies.