Psalm 93 and the Theocratic Imagination in an African Context

Sampson Ndoga

doi:10.25159/2663-6573/20903

Authors

Sampson Ndoga University of Pretoria

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2663-6573/20903

Keywords:

Psalm 93, divine kingship, African political theory, postcolonial hermeneutics, sacred kingship, biblical theocracy, ethical leadership

Abstract

This article offers a postcolonial reading of Psalm 93, examining its articulation of divine kingship through the lens of African political theology. The psalm’s bold affirmation, “The Lord reigns,” evokes a theocratic worldview rooted in the sovereignty, stability, and moral authority of Yahweh. By situating Psalm 93 within its ancient Near Eastern context and bringing it into dialogue with African notions of sacred kingship, the study explores how Indigenous African concepts of rule—often spiritual, communal, and morally grounded—resonate with biblical theocracy. Drawing on postcolonial hermeneutics, I interrogate the colonial disruptions that have displaced traditional African governance models and evaluate the potential of Psalm 93 to contribute to a theological reclamation of divine authority in post-colonial African contexts. My analysis challenges Western secular frameworks that have historically marginalised both biblical theocracy and African spiritual-political systems. Ultimately, the study seeks to reimagine theocratic discourse not as a regressive political ideal, but as a theological resource for restoring justice, legitimacy, and ethical leadership in African societies emerging from the shadows of colonialism.

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