Ghambageu Encounters Jesus in Sonjo Mythology: Syncretism as African Rational Action

Christian missions have worked among the Sonjo of North Tanzania for six decades. In spite of this, there are very few converts to Christianity. However, teachings of Christianity have been largely absorbed into Sonjo traditional religion. The apotheosized Sonjo cultural hero Ghambageu has gained an ever-increasing importance in Sonjo religion to the extent that it seems to be on a way towards a peculiar monotheism. The personality of Ghambegeu has transformed increasingly into the image of Jesus. Eventually, these two religious figures are on the way to being fused together. In this process, Sonjo traditional leaders have played an active role. Their action can be considered rational from the point of view of preserving the Sonjo social and cultural stability. At the same time, in spite of the meager visible success of Christian mission, Christianity has had a profound effect on the Sonjo through their traditional religion.