Postcolonial Reading of Matthew 2:13–23 in the Context of Migration and Xenophobia
Keywords:
Matthew 2:13–23, postcolonial, Migration, Japa, Nigeria , XenophobiaAbstract
This study is a postcolonial interpretation of Matthew 2:13-23 in relation to the problems of migration in the world in general, and Nigeria in particular. The study holds that the account of the flight of infant Jesus with his parents to Egypt could not only be interpreted as a fulfillment story relating to salvation history but could also be read in a socio-political context, particularly in terms of existential threat, forced migration, and divine solidarity with the vulnerable. The article adopts a conceptual and analytical approaches, relying on relevant literature on postcolonial politics, migration, xenophobia and the Nigerian migration experience. It makes the point that Matthew's story of the infancy reveals existential threat and violence against the vulnerable by rulers who misuse and abuse power. It also questions the actions of various nations, states and communities that criminalise and mistreat migrants, but do not take into consideration the political, economic and social factors for migration. The study maintains that the Nigerian Japa syndrome, for example, tells the story of a people whose life is characterised by existential crises, struggles and the desperate quest for survival, dignity of labour, enhanced livelihood. The study proposes hospitality model in rethinking migration policies to ensure justice, protection, and shared humanity.
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