Reign with Him for thousand years (Rev 20:6): A Socio-hermeneutical exposition of biblical and contemporary millenarian movements in Zimbabwe as radical responses to deprivation

Abstract

This study investigates the complex dynamics of millenarian movements within the context of biblical studies in Africa, with a particular focus on the political implications and societal impacts of such movements. The research aims to address existing gaps in literature regarding religious enthusiasm and millenarianism, especially concerning the Jehovah’s Witnesses and the Johane Masowe in Zimbabwe. By providing a comprehensive literature review, the study highlights the paucity of sources and identifies significant lacunae in current scholarship. The methodology employed combines heuristics, exegesis, hermeneutics, and social-scientific criticism, facilitating a multifaceted approach to data collection and analysis. The findings will not only contribute to the understanding of millenarian movements but also serve as a basis for remedial action, thereby emphasizing the urgency of studying these phenomena from fresh perspectives. Ultimately, this research seeks to enrich the discourse surrounding millenarianism in biblical studies, providing valuable insights into the interplay between religion, society, and politics in contemporary Africa.