Influence of Participation in the Kiama-Kia-Ma Goat Sacrifice on the Spiritual Beliefs, Values, and Practices of Agikuyu Christian Men

Abstract

This study investigated the influence of the ‘Kiama-kia-ma’ goat sacrifice ritual on the spirituality of Agikuyu Christian men in the African Christian Church, Kigumo Sub-County, Kenya. The research specifically analyzed how participation in this traditional rite of passage into eldership shapes spiritual beliefs, values, and practices. A mixed-methods approach was employed, utilizing questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions with a sample of 210 men. The findings reveal that participation induces significant spiritual conflict and a state of dual allegiance between Christian faith and traditional beliefs. While 97% of respondents intellectually affirmed the superiority of Jesus Christ's blood, practical syncretism was prevalent, with many attributing parallel, culturally-specific power to the goat sacrifice for socio-cultural legitimacy. This duality had a tangible negative impact on Christian disciplines, manifesting in a marked decline in prayer frequency (reported by 65% of participants) and reduced church attendance. The ritual created a barrier to sacramental participation, notably Holy Communion, due to feelings of guilt and incompatibility. The study concludes that the Kiama-kia-ma goat sacrifice significantly undermines the exclusivity of Christian commitment and disrupts spiritual practices among Agikuyu men. It underscores an urgent need for the church to develop deeper, contextually-sensitive discipleship and inculturation strategies that address the core cultural needs for identity and belonging, thereby affirming Christ's supremacy over all domains of life.

Keywords: Kiama-Kia-Ma, Goat Sacrifice, Spiritual Beliefs, Values, and Practices, Agikuyu Christian Men