QUESTION: Why was idolatry such a significant problem of Israel and what did the prophets say and do about it in reference to both Israel and Zimbabwean prophets? (25).

COMMENT OVERVIEW

THE above question requires one to first point out the effects of idolatry in Israel and the reaction of the prophets due to the practice of idolatry.

In Israel there were so many prophets who dealt with idolatry, the idea originated with Moses and it was perpetuated by other prophets. The question demands us to concentrate on Israel, remember during the exodus, Israel was not yet a historical nation, hence we have to ignore Moses. In this work the author will include Moses, the reason being that there is something to be learnt there.

The writer will focus on the following prophets (a) Elijah (b) Samuel (c) Man of God (d) Amos (e) Hosea (f) Isaiah (g) Jeremiah The above question was submitted by Chitungwiza Herentals Divinity students under the subject teacher Mr Shekede.

SUGGESTED ANSWERS WHY IDOLATRY WAS A PROBLEM

Idolatry was a problem in Israel because it had negative effects on the Israelites, in other words it was more of a curse than a blessing because:

(a) It led to the persecutions of true prophets. 1st Kings 19:10

(b) Punishment. The Israelites experienced punishment from Yahweh because of idolatry.

(c) Religious disorder. Jezebel destroyed the alters of Yahweh, this is recorded in 1st Kings 19:10.

(d) Social evils such as bribery, stealing, swearing and etc. Hosea 4:2.

NB: THERE ARE SO MANY POINTS TO BE ADDED.

WHAT DID THE PROPHETS SAY AND DO ABOUT IDOLATRY IN ISRAEL AND IN ZIMBABWEAN CONTEXT?

Israelites started to practice idolatry during the exodus event, this cannot be denied. This is evidenced in Exodus 32:15, as they made the golden calf. During this period Israelites were under the hands of Moses. Moses condemned this idea as it was violating the Mosaic covenant (10 commandments). The response of Moses was to challenge the Israelites at the same time destroying the golden calf, this is evidenced in Exodus 32: 20. In Zimbabwean context, Zimbabwean prophets have greatly dealt with the issue of idolatry, for instance the Zimbabwean authors and authoresses the likes of Isabel Mukonyora, Kudzai Biri, Gunda, Dillon etal, submitted that Johane Masowe was commissioned to be the messenger of all Africans destroying “mishonga” and fetishes since evil practice was on its peak, as a result he managed to deal with VaPositori ekuMasowe)