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Legacy: Wisdom of African Traditions and the Bible
Wisdom of African Traditions and the Bible compares almost 300 proverbs from all over the continent with Bible verses, organized into forty-six broad themes. Chris Morehouse was compelled to write the book after exploring the Parallel Sayings books, which juxtapose insights from the great religious traditions with their counterparts from Jewish and Christian scriptures. These books explore resonances between Christianity and Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Taoism. The author began to wonder why there was not a similar volume exploring corresponding insights from Africa’s traditions. In this book, you’ll • African expressions of the golden rule; • versions of loving one’s enemies and welcoming the stranger; • insights about losing your way to find your way—and much more. The African idea of sankofa—“go back and get it”—tells us that we can go forward by looking to the past. Find common ground and get tools to face the future with the insights in this book of African and biblical wisdom.
306 pages, Paperback
Published August 30, 2023
3 people are currently reading
8 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
April 30, 2024
"Extremely profound, striking, causing self-examination.”
Christopher Morehouse’s Legacy is an awesome collection of African proverbs that left me in awe as I read along. I would first love to mention that this is my first time reading a book of this type, genre, and category. The depth of research in the works makes me wonder why Christopher, even though an American, could be interested in writing this beautifully crafted book on the wisdom of African traditions and the Bible. His approach is quite thoughtful, precise, thought-provoking, evaluating, and brilliant. I particularly loved his juxtaposition of different proverbs according to their country of origin and their uses, it made for a philosophical comparison.
From reading the foreword, I was hooked by the tons of wisdom and overview conveyed in it; I also found a proverb that originated from where I come from, Nigeria, and that is, “It is only a fool that tests the depth of a river with both feet.” I also loved it when the author wrote that Africa is the birthplace of humanity, culture, language, and wisdom.” One of the things I loved about Legacy is the way the author classified and grouped these proverbs according to their similarities in order of country of origin. This creates a better way for me to compare and contrast the weight of each proverb to its place of conception, trying to explore the one with the deepest and most thoughtful word usage or wording, even though they all represent the same meaning.
Apart from the fact that this book re-introduces me to the various life-changing words, philosophies, and essence of humanity, I would love to mention that it speaks to me in volume as I often purse, reflect, think, digest, and re-read certain proverbs before going to the next. I take some notes that I would like to get back to later and apply their message and deep value to my life. The “yorubic” comparison of words, oro, to wealth, oro, is so deep and reminds me of how social media has given people the avenue to not examine their words before unleashing them on other people, knowing full well that it’s going to emotionally affect those it’s been directed to.
I liked that Legacy expounds on different themes that touch on different subject matters, some of which include forgiveness, compassion, wisdom and foolishness, trusting in God, hope, peace, conscience, patience, generosity, hate, stumbling blocks, vengeance, violence, pride, repentance, idolatry, envy, death, reconciliation, and many others. There is a vast ocean of wisdom and wealth to draw from these themes. My favorite is the philosophy connected with the topic of stumbling block. I can go on and on, as what Christopher seeks to communicate here is beyond amazing.
It’s a well-researched book, one that I think would be greatly appreciated among Africans, despite the fact that it was authored by a foreigner. I smiled several times reading proverbs that emanated from my country, and it was great to see the comparisons and similarities it has with other proverbs from other African nations too. Truly, there is a whole lots of wisdom in African words, it corrects, challenges, instructs, communicate, rebuke, and does magic to human psychology. If you are a fan of works that makes you think long after you've read them, then, I'm sure you will find pleasure in Legacy. I solely recommend this book to lovers of wisdom, philosophy, and literature at large.
Christopher Morehouse’s Legacy is an awesome collection of African proverbs that left me in awe as I read along. I would first love to mention that this is my first time reading a book of this type, genre, and category. The depth of research in the works makes me wonder why Christopher, even though an American, could be interested in writing this beautifully crafted book on the wisdom of African traditions and the Bible. His approach is quite thoughtful, precise, thought-provoking, evaluating, and brilliant. I particularly loved his juxtaposition of different proverbs according to their country of origin and their uses, it made for a philosophical comparison.
From reading the foreword, I was hooked by the tons of wisdom and overview conveyed in it; I also found a proverb that originated from where I come from, Nigeria, and that is, “It is only a fool that tests the depth of a river with both feet.” I also loved it when the author wrote that Africa is the birthplace of humanity, culture, language, and wisdom.” One of the things I loved about Legacy is the way the author classified and grouped these proverbs according to their similarities in order of country of origin. This creates a better way for me to compare and contrast the weight of each proverb to its place of conception, trying to explore the one with the deepest and most thoughtful word usage or wording, even though they all represent the same meaning.
Apart from the fact that this book re-introduces me to the various life-changing words, philosophies, and essence of humanity, I would love to mention that it speaks to me in volume as I often purse, reflect, think, digest, and re-read certain proverbs before going to the next. I take some notes that I would like to get back to later and apply their message and deep value to my life. The “yorubic” comparison of words, oro, to wealth, oro, is so deep and reminds me of how social media has given people the avenue to not examine their words before unleashing them on other people, knowing full well that it’s going to emotionally affect those it’s been directed to.
I liked that Legacy expounds on different themes that touch on different subject matters, some of which include forgiveness, compassion, wisdom and foolishness, trusting in God, hope, peace, conscience, patience, generosity, hate, stumbling blocks, vengeance, violence, pride, repentance, idolatry, envy, death, reconciliation, and many others. There is a vast ocean of wisdom and wealth to draw from these themes. My favorite is the philosophy connected with the topic of stumbling block. I can go on and on, as what Christopher seeks to communicate here is beyond amazing.
It’s a well-researched book, one that I think would be greatly appreciated among Africans, despite the fact that it was authored by a foreigner. I smiled several times reading proverbs that emanated from my country, and it was great to see the comparisons and similarities it has with other proverbs from other African nations too. Truly, there is a whole lots of wisdom in African words, it corrects, challenges, instructs, communicate, rebuke, and does magic to human psychology. If you are a fan of works that makes you think long after you've read them, then, I'm sure you will find pleasure in Legacy. I solely recommend this book to lovers of wisdom, philosophy, and literature at large.
November 17, 2023
"Legacy: Wisdom of African Traditions and the Bible" written by Chris Morehouse is a must read book. It has enlightened me with the wisdom of African Traditions and the Bible with the help of so many proverbs.
While reading this book, I was amazed to learn about the Golden Rule. In African tradition, the Golden Rule in Nigeria is:
What you can’t take, do not do unto others.
—Yoruba (Nigeria)
It's compared with the Bible Golden Rule that says:
Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
—Luke 6:31
If I would have known this golden rule earlier, I would have saved myself from so much trouble.
The Commentary and Study Guide is very helpful. The author has shared his detailed comments. He suggests the readers not to overlook African versions. The Golden Rule has many variations across different African cultures but ultimately it means that we should treat others properly.
'Seeking' guided me to reach out to God for the things that I want but having a hard time achieving those. God fulfills our wishes. We should tell him what we want.
God spoke, “Ask me and I’ll give you.”
—Swahili (Kenya and Tanzania)
God welcomes seekers. This book takes us closer to God and improves our relationship with him. It provides us with a deeper understanding. I strongly recommend this book to my fellow readers. It's a must read.
While reading this book, I was amazed to learn about the Golden Rule. In African tradition, the Golden Rule in Nigeria is:
What you can’t take, do not do unto others.
—Yoruba (Nigeria)
It's compared with the Bible Golden Rule that says:
Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
—Luke 6:31
If I would have known this golden rule earlier, I would have saved myself from so much trouble.
The Commentary and Study Guide is very helpful. The author has shared his detailed comments. He suggests the readers not to overlook African versions. The Golden Rule has many variations across different African cultures but ultimately it means that we should treat others properly.
'Seeking' guided me to reach out to God for the things that I want but having a hard time achieving those. God fulfills our wishes. We should tell him what we want.
God spoke, “Ask me and I’ll give you.”
—Swahili (Kenya and Tanzania)
God welcomes seekers. This book takes us closer to God and improves our relationship with him. It provides us with a deeper understanding. I strongly recommend this book to my fellow readers. It's a must read.
November 17, 2023
🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸
Book: Legacy
Author: Chris Morehouse
Rating: 5/5
🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸
Review:
Those who seek wisdom should definitely get their hands on this book. This book increased my knowledge about the connection between African traditions and Christian practice. This book is rich in content and I am grateful for all the wisdom that this book has given me.
This book guides us to live an abundant life. It tells us that we are from dust and would be dust again after death. The below proverb, inspires me to be a child of light
For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the
Lord. Live as children of light.
—Ephesians 5:8
The Questions for Study and Discussion would help you in self-discovery, getting more clarity about what you want. These questions will leave you wondering and would deepen your understanding.
I wish I would have read a book like this in my younger years. The wisdom that this book gives, I have learned that the hard way. This book has various countries and ethnic groups featured in it. Chris has done great work in this book. It's the first book that I have read by the author but it won't be the last book for sure. The cover and the title of the book are amazing. Add this book to your tbr now
Book: Legacy
Author: Chris Morehouse
Rating: 5/5
🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸
Review:
Those who seek wisdom should definitely get their hands on this book. This book increased my knowledge about the connection between African traditions and Christian practice. This book is rich in content and I am grateful for all the wisdom that this book has given me.
This book guides us to live an abundant life. It tells us that we are from dust and would be dust again after death. The below proverb, inspires me to be a child of light
For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the
Lord. Live as children of light.
—Ephesians 5:8
The Questions for Study and Discussion would help you in self-discovery, getting more clarity about what you want. These questions will leave you wondering and would deepen your understanding.
I wish I would have read a book like this in my younger years. The wisdom that this book gives, I have learned that the hard way. This book has various countries and ethnic groups featured in it. Chris has done great work in this book. It's the first book that I have read by the author but it won't be the last book for sure. The cover and the title of the book are amazing. Add this book to your tbr now
November 10, 2023
"Legacy: Wisdom of African Traditions and the Bible" written by the author Chris Morehouse is a unique read. This book is rich in African and Biblical wisdom. In this book, readers would discover African expressions of the golden rule and welcoming the stranger.
The author has mentioned how African proverbs do not represent a single tradition. They are diverse and rich just like the continent of Africa. Proverbs encapsulate insights that can sink deep into your soul. The author has shared the golden rule:
If you know what hurts yourself, you know what hurts others. —Malagasy (Madagascar)
This golden rule exists in beautiful variations across several African cultures. I learned this golden rule recently in my life.
The Following proverb tells us to tell God whatever we are seeking.
God spoke, “Ask me and I’ll give you.”—Swahili (Kenya & Tanzania)
The Commentary and Study Guide section is thought provoking. It will help us to study and explore more wisdom. The comparison between African and Christian teachings is done well. I am glad to read the book. The proverbs are full of wisdom.
The author has mentioned how African proverbs do not represent a single tradition. They are diverse and rich just like the continent of Africa. Proverbs encapsulate insights that can sink deep into your soul. The author has shared the golden rule:
If you know what hurts yourself, you know what hurts others. —Malagasy (Madagascar)
This golden rule exists in beautiful variations across several African cultures. I learned this golden rule recently in my life.
The Following proverb tells us to tell God whatever we are seeking.
God spoke, “Ask me and I’ll give you.”—Swahili (Kenya & Tanzania)
The Commentary and Study Guide section is thought provoking. It will help us to study and explore more wisdom. The comparison between African and Christian teachings is done well. I am glad to read the book. The proverbs are full of wisdom.
November 10, 2023
Through this book, the author is educating readers about the literal meaning of sankofa. It instructs us to go forward and look to the past. The author loves and collects African proverbs. He appreciates their conciseness and depth. This book is inspired by the Parallel Sayings. When the author didn't find content on African traditions vs other religions, he wrote a Legacy.
For corresponding Bible versions, the author has tried to use the New International Version (NIV), for reasons of accessibility and clarity. The author has mentioned that the African proverbs are not a religion per se. However, African proverbs possess deep insights into human conditions. This book has the Bible passages compared with the African proverbs. It will help us to ponder the meanings and develop new understandings.
These proverbs are based on love, seeing, forgiveness, wisdom and foolishness, etc. These proverbs have helped me to gain new wisdom. I was totally unaware of the Wisdom of African traditions. Their comparison with Bible verses provide great insight. This book prepares us to face the future with the insights in this book of African and biblical wisdom.
For corresponding Bible versions, the author has tried to use the New International Version (NIV), for reasons of accessibility and clarity. The author has mentioned that the African proverbs are not a religion per se. However, African proverbs possess deep insights into human conditions. This book has the Bible passages compared with the African proverbs. It will help us to ponder the meanings and develop new understandings.
These proverbs are based on love, seeing, forgiveness, wisdom and foolishness, etc. These proverbs have helped me to gain new wisdom. I was totally unaware of the Wisdom of African traditions. Their comparison with Bible verses provide great insight. This book prepares us to face the future with the insights in this book of African and biblical wisdom.
November 17, 2023
"Legacy: Wisdom of African Traditions and the Bible" is a very different book. Until now, I wasn't aware about the African traditions and the proverbs. This book opens the reader's eyes to African wisdom.
This book offers us wisdom that would help us to be mature and be a better human. It awakens us. The wisdoms are based on different topics like Speaking and Listening, Seeking, Love, Compassion, etc. I feel grateful for all the wisdom that the author has shared in this book.
The title of the book stands true to its content. This book is really a legacy from the earlier generations and the author to us. The proverbs that the author has included in it are mind blowing.
Knowledge remains, but money gets used up.
—Wolof (Senegal)
It guides me to increase my knowledge as money can be taken away from us but our knowledge and wisdom would stay with us throughout life. This book gives the much needed guidance and wisdom to live life with maturity.
Undoubtedly, Morehouse has done great work in this book. I am all excited to read the future works of the author too. A must have book in your bookshelf.
This book offers us wisdom that would help us to be mature and be a better human. It awakens us. The wisdoms are based on different topics like Speaking and Listening, Seeking, Love, Compassion, etc. I feel grateful for all the wisdom that the author has shared in this book.
The title of the book stands true to its content. This book is really a legacy from the earlier generations and the author to us. The proverbs that the author has included in it are mind blowing.
Knowledge remains, but money gets used up.
—Wolof (Senegal)
It guides me to increase my knowledge as money can be taken away from us but our knowledge and wisdom would stay with us throughout life. This book gives the much needed guidance and wisdom to live life with maturity.
Undoubtedly, Morehouse has done great work in this book. I am all excited to read the future works of the author too. A must have book in your bookshelf.
November 22, 2023
Legacy: Wisdom of African Traditions and the Bible is an in-depth study of African proverbs and their correlation to Bible verses. The author has been collecting African proverbs for the past 30 years. A few years back, when the author realized that there is no comparison of African proverbs with other traditions, he got inspired to write this book.
Before getting my hands on this book, I have heard about the Golden Rule. However, I have read the African expressions of the Golden Rule for the first time. This book makes us realize that sometimes we have painful experiences so God can create something good from our tragedies.
The author has done great work in writing this book. His research was clearly reflected in his work. The Discussion questions are engaging. They would help you in knowing yourself better.
I appreciate all the knowledge that the author has shared in this book. This book made me reflect on my painful past experiences. If I would have known these proverbs earlier, I would have made wise decisions back then. Chris should definitely write more books. I am highly interested in exploring his future works.
Rating: 4.5/5
Before getting my hands on this book, I have heard about the Golden Rule. However, I have read the African expressions of the Golden Rule for the first time. This book makes us realize that sometimes we have painful experiences so God can create something good from our tragedies.
The author has done great work in writing this book. His research was clearly reflected in his work. The Discussion questions are engaging. They would help you in knowing yourself better.
I appreciate all the knowledge that the author has shared in this book. This book made me reflect on my painful past experiences. If I would have known these proverbs earlier, I would have made wise decisions back then. Chris should definitely write more books. I am highly interested in exploring his future works.
Rating: 4.5/5
November 22, 2023
Chris Morehouse's exceptional work, a literary gem, sparked my interest in delving deeper into African traditions and wisdom. Through a captivating exploration, the author skillfully presents a fascinating comparison between proverbs from diverse African cultures and the Judeo-Christian tradition.
Every page of this book prompts introspection, revealing a newfound awareness and dispelling past naivety. The profound African wisdom shared within these pages extends its relevance to both personal and professional spheres, empowering readers to make informed life choices. For enthusiasts of proverbs, this book is a treasure, and my joy in reading it knows no bounds. I extend my gratitude to the author for imparting such invaluable wisdom.
Upon completion, I recognized the universal teachings woven through different traditions, each conveying similar principles in its unique way. The book's title deserves a resounding five stars, acknowledging the profound legacy of wisdom passed down through generations.
This book is undoubtedly a must-read, a compelling journey into wisdom and tradition that transcends time.
Every page of this book prompts introspection, revealing a newfound awareness and dispelling past naivety. The profound African wisdom shared within these pages extends its relevance to both personal and professional spheres, empowering readers to make informed life choices. For enthusiasts of proverbs, this book is a treasure, and my joy in reading it knows no bounds. I extend my gratitude to the author for imparting such invaluable wisdom.
Upon completion, I recognized the universal teachings woven through different traditions, each conveying similar principles in its unique way. The book's title deserves a resounding five stars, acknowledging the profound legacy of wisdom passed down through generations.
This book is undoubtedly a must-read, a compelling journey into wisdom and tradition that transcends time.
November 10, 2023
I have read many books on Bible teachings but this is the first time I have read a book that gives wisdom of African traditions. Chris Morehouse is enlightening the readers about the African traditions. This book provides an amazing side-by-side comparison of proverbs from various African cultures and the Judeo-Christian tradition.
Real love knows not danger.—Haiti
Compare to the following:
Perfect love casts out fear.—1 John 4:18
The author found the different ways that the African proverbs align with Paul’s wisdom particularly striking. 'Questions for Discussion and Study' would open your eyes to new wisdom. I really appreciate these questions. The African map helped me to know about the various countries' locations well.
I really appreciate the ancient wisdom of Africa that the author has shared with the readers with the help of this book. Those who enjoy reading books on Comparative Religion should definitely get their hands on this book. It's quite a unique book.
Real love knows not danger.—Haiti
Compare to the following:
Perfect love casts out fear.—1 John 4:18
The author found the different ways that the African proverbs align with Paul’s wisdom particularly striking. 'Questions for Discussion and Study' would open your eyes to new wisdom. I really appreciate these questions. The African map helped me to know about the various countries' locations well.
I really appreciate the ancient wisdom of Africa that the author has shared with the readers with the help of this book. Those who enjoy reading books on Comparative Religion should definitely get their hands on this book. It's quite a unique book.
November 22, 2023
"Legacy: Wisdom of African Traditions and the Bible" is a must read book by all those who seek wisdom. The author has shared wisdom of African traditions and its comparison with the Bible. Before reading this book, I was only aware of the Christian proverbs. This book enlightened me with the proverbs from different cultures of Africa.
These proverbs help us to live life in the right way. The proverbs are the legacy from the generation who have gone before us. The author Chris loves African proverbs for their conciseness and depth. This book introduced me to many African countries. The Golden Rule is something everyone should know.
This book is worth every second of yours. I am happy to read this book. Chris has done great work.
Time for everyone to get insights from Africa’s wisdom traditions with the help of legacy. The wisdom from this book will help you throughout life.
These proverbs help us to live life in the right way. The proverbs are the legacy from the generation who have gone before us. The author Chris loves African proverbs for their conciseness and depth. This book introduced me to many African countries. The Golden Rule is something everyone should know.
This book is worth every second of yours. I am happy to read this book. Chris has done great work.
Time for everyone to get insights from Africa’s wisdom traditions with the help of legacy. The wisdom from this book will help you throughout life.
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March 22, 2024"Legacy: Wisdom of African Traditions and the Bible masterfully intertwines African proverbs with biblical passages, revealing the rich tapestry of human wisdom through the ages, and displaying the interconnectedness between different cultures. With over three dozen topics and numerous proverbs paralleled with Bible verses, spanning such themes as forgiveness and anger, the book is a comprehensive overview, which can also be used as a springboard for further study. The inclusion of imagery and maps enhances this examination, making it an indispensable reference guide for those seeking to understand the universal principles shared across both African and Christian traditions." Self-Publishing Review, ★★★★½
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews