The Forgotten Black Roots of World Religions (Part 2: Christianity)

Introduction

Christianity, a faith rooted in the life and teachings of Jesus, carries within its doctrines and traditions profound African influences, many of which have been hidden or downplayed over centuries. This part of our series explores how ancient African cultures—especially those of Egypt (Kemet) and Ethiopia—shaped the formation, symbols, and theology of early Christianity. From the story of Christ’s birth to the development of early Christian communities, African traditions left an indelible mark on Christianity’s origins.

1. Egyptian Influence on Christian Theology and Symbolism

The stories, rituals, and symbols associated with Christianity reveal significant parallels with ancient Egyptian spiritual traditions. Egypt was not merely a geographical backdrop for biblical events but a cradle of ideas that would shape Christian theology.

• The Virgin Birth and the Horus-Isis Myth:

  • In ancient Egyptian mythology, Isis miraculously conceived Horus, the savior figure, after the death of her husband, Osiris.

  • This myth closely parallels the Christian narrative of Mary, the virgin mother, giving birth to Jesus, the Savior of humanity. Just as Horus was destined to restore order and defeat evil, Jesus is portrayed as the bringer of salvation and light to the world.

• The Concept of the Trinity:

  • Egyptian religion featured divine triads, such as the trinity of Osiris, Isis, and Horus. These triadic relationships laid a conceptual foundation for the Christian doctrine of the Holy Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

• The Cross and the Ankh:

  • The Christian cross symbolizes salvation and eternal life, a concept also embodied in the Egyptian ankh, the ancient symbol for life and immortality. The ankh was widely used in Egyptian religious art, representing the breath of life given by the gods, similar to the Christian notion of divine grace …