A pastoral study on gender-based violence and femicide in South Africa

Abstract

Gender-based violence and femicide has been declared South Africa’s second pandemic. It is believed that one in three (1 in 3) women has experienced some form of gender-based violence before the age of 18. The Covid-19 pandemic also had an impact on the increase of Gender-based violence cases in South Africa. It has been indicated that GBV is a violation of the basic human rights of individuals. It has also been maintained that the church is not exempt from GBV and the ill-effects it has on individuals since it has an effect on the spirit, soul and body/physical dimensions of individuals. It is believed that the social learning and ecological systems theory can be used as a means to understand the motivations behind the perpetration of GBV- related crimes. GBV within the context of the church is rooted in sinfulness and brokenness as well as the misinterpretation of Scripture. It has been noted that the biblical text does actually address issues relating to the rape and murder of women. An exegetical analysis of Judges 19 was conducted in order to discuss GBV from a biblical perspective. It was mentioned that the notion of humanity/mankind as created in the image of God, relates to men and women being seen in equal light. Women should not be regarded as inferior to their male counterparts. It is noted that the church has a role to play in addressing GBV and femicide in society. This involves the church addressing issues of equality and challenging the misuse of Scripture within congregations. Pastoral guidelines to assist victims of GBV have been provided.