ANALYZING THE REPRESENTATION OF NON-ISRAELITE CHARACTERS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT IN THE CONTEXT OF INTER-ETHNIC RELATIONSHIP IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This paper critically analyzes and explores the representation of non-Israelite characters in the Old Testament, examining their portrayal and cultural implications. The Old Testament includes various characters from different nations, tribes, and ethnicities, and their representation has significant cultural implications. The study highlights that the representation of non-Israelite characters in the Old Testament is often stereotypical and simplified, emphasizing their otherness and inferiority to the Israelites. This portrayal has implications for the cultural attitudes and biases of the readers towards non-Israelite cultures and can contribute to reinforcing negative stereotypes and prejudices. The analysis concludes by discussing the cultural implications of the portrayal of non-Israelite characters in the Old Testament which can be analyzed through various lenses, including historical, anthropological, and sociological. The paper concluded by noting that contemporary Nigerian literature and media have the potential to influence and shape popular perceptions of other cultures and traditions. They can be used to challenge negative stereotypes and promote cross-cultural understanding and dialogue