TRADITIONAL MEDICINE IN THE OLD TESTAMENT: A BIBLICAL ANALYSIS OF SELECTED HEALING TEXTS AND THEIR CONTEMPORARY RELEVANCE

Abstract

Traditional medicine has remained an integral component of healthcare systems in many societies, particularly in Africa, where herbal remedies and indigenous healing practices continue to complement orthodox medicine. However, the relationship between traditional medicine and the biblical tradition has generated considerable theological debate, with divergent views regarding its legitimacy and relevance within Christian communities. This study examines selected Old Testament healing texts to explore their perspectives on the use of traditional medicine and assess their contemporary relevance. Employing the historical-grammatical and exegetical methods of biblical interpretation, the study analyzes selected passages that reference medicinal plants, healing substances, and therapeutic practices within their historical and literary contexts. Data were obtained from the Hebrew Bible and relevant secondary sources, including books, peer-reviewed journals, and biblical commentaries. The findings reveal that the Old Testament acknowledges the medicinal value of natural resources and presents healing as an integrated process involving divine sovereignty, human responsibility, and the appropriate use of therapeutic agents. The study further demonstrates that biblical healing practices neither dismiss indigenous medicinal knowledge nor detach healing from faith in God. It concludes that a biblically informed and contextually grounded understanding of traditional medicine can enrich contemporary Christian engagement with healthcare. The study recommends a balanced theological approach that promotes responsible use of traditional medicine while maintaining biblical principles, scientific validation, and ethical standards.