What is Tribalism?
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About
As humanity’s understanding and discussion of the concepts of race, racism, and antiracism have evolved over generations, so have the words and phrases we use as we continue the work of obeying God and advancing racial justice.
In this “What Is?” series, the General Commission on Religion and Race offers this compilation of concise definitions, examples, and Biblical/theological foundations to create common vocabulary for Christians as we engage in anti-racism work.
Our hope, as you engage this series, is that the learning equips you to move into deeper waters in anti-racism work in your respective context.
Visit the series homepage for more information on other anti-racism resources.
Definition
TRIBALISM IN AFRICA HAS DEEP HISTORICAL ROOTS, originating from the formation of ethnic groups based on shared ancestry, language, culture, and territory. Before colonialism, African societies were organized into kinship-based communities and kingdoms, fostering strong group identities. However, European colonial powers exacerbated tribal divisions by drawing artificial borders, favoring certain groups over others, and employing divide-and-rule strategies.
These colonial legacies, combined with post-independence struggles for power and resources, intensified tribalism, shaping modern political and social dynamics across the continent.
Tribalism refers to the strong loyalty individuals feel toward their group, often resulting in favoritism toward members and exclusion of outsiders. While tribal loyalty fosters community and belonging, it can lead to divisions and conflicts. (Mafeje, 1971).
Example and How It Operates
IN THE AFRICAN CONTEXT, TRIBALISM IS ROOTED IN ETHNIC AFFILIATIONS, influencing national and social cohesion, and it often influences political dynamics. For example, in Nigeria, Angola, Zimbabwe, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Kenya, ethnic affiliations shape voting patterns, political alliances, and sometimes even conflicts (Vail, 1989). In America, tribalism manifests in political polarization, cultural divisions, and social identities (Smith, 2018). Social movements and cultural identities also reflect modern tribalism, such as the polarization in media consumption and societal debates (Jones, 2020).
Biblical / Theological Framing
FROM A CHRISTIAN PERSPECTIVE, TRIBALISM CONFLICTS WITH the biblical vision of unity. Galatians 3:28 proclaims that in Christ, all are one, transcending divisions of ethnicity, status, or gender: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (NIV). Similarly, Jesus’ command to “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31) challenges believers to prioritize compassion and inclusion over division. The Christian call to unity offers a counter-narrative to tribalism’s exclusivity.
Reflection Questions
How does tribalism affect societal structures in your country?
In what ways can communities balance group identities with unity?
How can Christians reason together and worship in ways that invite all believers to the table with the goal of seeking God’s will rather than “winning” a theological/ideological argument?
How can the Church and faith communities lead in mitigating tribalistic divisions?
References
Seth Godin. Tribes: We Need You to
Lead Us – A discussion on the power of
Leroy Vail. The Creation of Tribalism
in Southern Africa by Leroy Vail – A
historical analysis of ethnic identities
Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o. Secure the Base:
Making Africa Visible in the Globe by – A