84 CHAPTER IV VESTIGES OF THE PENTATEUCHAL DERIVATIVES IN THE AFRICAN SOCIO-CULTURAL LIFESTYLE Sikhumbuzo Dube The Pentateuch provides a rich cultural heritage for the Jewish people. On surface reading one may consider it as irrelevant to other cultures. A closer study of the Pentateuch reveals its applicability and relevance to diverse cultures. Even though the African culture is as diverse as the various people groups that exist within its boundaries, there is a common line of confluence across the continent. The linguistic and national boundaries only separate the people groups tribally and geographically, yet the sons of Ham (Gen 10:6) are still the same people. Embedded in the African culture are seen principles that God gave to Moses to govern the nation of Israel. A close explorative and contemplative study of African culture may uncover Pentateuchal derivatives ingrained in the African way of life. This article seeks to explain the biblical heritage that Africa has, as far as its way of life is concerned, and to what extent this influences the hermeneutics on the continent. The study will attempt to address the following questions: Could the Bible be understood better if read through the eyes of African culture? Does culture influence biblical hermeneutics? How can the good things in the culture be adopted into Christianity?