The prosperity gospel in Ghana and the primal imagination

Abstract

This paper makes the assertion that despite the significant influence of American neo-pentecostalism in shaping prosperity theology in the charismatic churches in Ghana, it is crucial to note that the primal aspirations of prosperity also continue to play a significant role. Second, the thriving prosperity teaching in the charismatic ministries is largely due to the fact that the charismatics have tapped into fertile ground already nurtured by the traditional concept of prosperity, which is to be understood in terms of wealth, longevity and fertility or procreativity. In the African cosmology, the belief and pursuit of prosperity is paramount. Africans do not 'honour' or accept suffering or poverty, it is a battle they have always sought to fight, and the belief in the gods is primarily to ensure prosperity and well-being. Thus the influence of American-type prosperity teaching only served as a catalyst and also reinforced what was already prevailing in the matrix of the primal world-view. The focus of this prayer is centred on material prosperity, fertility (procreation) and long life (health), which cannot come about without the blessing of the divinities. Harmony with the divinities therefore becomes a prerequisite not only for physical and spiritual protection from evil forces but also for the enjoyment of good health, fertility and longevity.