Reconciliation and forgiveness in Genesis 45:1–18: Lessons for resolution of the herder-farmer conflicts in Benue State,Nigeria

Abstract

This article presents the reconciliation and forgiveness model of conflict resolution in Genesis 45:1–18 and its lessons for the resolution of herders-farmers conflict in Benue State, Nigeria. The herders-farmers conflict has not only been intractable and defied sustainable resolution and has caused the loss of lives and property in the state. In Joseph's narrative in Genesis 45:1–18, reconciliation and forgiveness were pivotal in the resettlement of the Jewish population in Egypt and eventually led to the formation of Israel as a nation. The data from the narrative presents subordinate themes: (a) rivalries; (b) resolved anger; (c) humility on the part of the aggressor and victim; and (d) a selfless and impartial mediator. The findings of the study were discussed in relation to the conflict in Benue State. The study argues that the reconciliation and forgiveness model of Genesis 45 could inform conflict resolution strategies for peaceful coexistence in Benue State.