Racism and Tribalism in Orthodox Christian Ethics

Racism and tribalism (ዘረኝነትና ጎሰኝነት) are harmful attitudes and behaviors that can be found in various contexts, including within religious communities. In Orthodox Christian ethics, the teachings of the Bible emphasize the equal worth and dignity of all human beings, regardless of their race or ethnicity. Here are a few biblical teachings that address these issues:

1. The Equality of All People: The Bible teaches that all human beings are created in the image of God and share a common ancestry. In Genesis 1:27, it says, "So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them." This highlights the inherent worth and equality of all individuals, irrespective of their racial or tribal differences.

2. The Call for Love and Compassion: In the New Testament, our Lord Jesus Christ teaches the commandment of love, emphasizing that it extends to all people, regardless of their background. In Mark 12:31, Jesus Christ says, "Love your neighbor as yourself." This teaching encourages believers to treat others with kindness, respect, and compassion, irrespective of their racial or tribal identities.

3. The Universality of Salvation: Orthodox Christianity teaches that salvation is offered to all people, without distinction. In Galatians 3:28, the Apostle Paul states, "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." This passage emphasizes the unity and equal standing of believers in Christ, regardless of their ethnic or social backgrounds.

In conclusion, Orthodox Christian ethics strongly discourage the dividing and discriminatory attitudes of racism and tribalism. Instead, it promotes the values of love, equality, and unity among all individuals, embracing the diversity of God's creation.

P.S. To my Ethiopian friends and connections, as evident in the sacred teachings of the Holy Bible, a true Christian unequivocally rejects racism and tribalism, I kindly urge you to move away from this mindset. Instead, let us embrace unity, love, and understanding.