Psalm 82, "Unjust Gods" and its Application to Nigerian Survivors of Sex Trafficking in Europe

Table of Contents

• Chapter 1 Introduction
• A. Nigerian Sex Trafficking in Europe
• B. Christian Faith-Based NGOs as Key Players in Assisting Nigerian SOTS in Europe
• C. Introducing Psalm 82 and the Cosmos as a Polity Framework
• D. Outline of Dissertation Approach and Relationship to Integrative Theology
• Chapter 2 - Understanding the Role of an African Traditional Justice System in Nigerian Sex Trafficking Cases
• A. An African Traditional Justice System in Nigeria
• 1) The Categorical Framework: Deities as Enforcers of Justice
• 2) Oath-Taking Temples as Locations for African Traditional Justice
• 3) Example of Ayelala
• B. Ritual-Judicial Practices and Juju
• C. Sex Trafficking as Corruption of Numinous-Judicial Power
• Chapter 3 - Understanding Psalm 82
• A. History and Core Interpretational Issue
• B. 'The Cosmos as a Polity' - An ANE Categorical Framework and Root Metaphor
• 1) ANE Categorical Framework
• 2) A Root Metaphor
• 3) The Phenomenon of Elohim as Judicial Powers
• C. Biblical-Exegetical and Theological Consideration
• 1) Verse 1
• 2) Verses 2-4
• 3) Verse 5
• 3) Verses 6-7
• 4) Verse 8
• 5) Summary of Interpretation
• Chapter 4 – Applying Psalm 82 to Nigerian SOTS
• A. From Apperception to Intersubjectivity
• B. Narrative-Theological Application of Psalm 82
• 1) The Biblical Metanarrative Related to Psalm 82
• 2) Applying the Narrative to SOTS
• 3) A Narrative Therapy Based on Psalm 82
• C. Ritual-Judicial Application of Psalm 82
• D. Project Conclusion

Objectives and Key Themes

This dissertation aims to analyze the phenomenon of Nigerian sex trafficking in Europe through the lens of Psalm 82. It seeks to understand the interplay between traditional African justice systems, the cultural impact of spiritual beliefs (juju), and the implications for assisting survivors of sex trafficking (SOTS). The study explores the applicability of Psalm 82's framework to address the complex challenges faced by these women.

• Nigerian sex trafficking in Europe and the role of debt-bondage.
• The influence of African traditional justice systems and spiritual beliefs (juju) on the experiences of SOTS.
• An interpretation of Psalm 82 as a framework for understanding injustice and divine judgment.
• The application of Psalm 82's themes to provide narrative and ritual-judicial approaches to assisting SOTS.
• The challenges faced by NGOs and authorities in providing effective support for SOTS.

Chapter Summaries

Chapter 1 Introduction: This chapter sets the stage by outlining the prevalence of Nigerian sex trafficking within the European Union. It highlights the system of debt-bondage, often enforced through the threat of spiritual violence (juju), and the challenges faced by authorities and NGOs in providing assistance due to cultural and epistemological differences. The chapter introduces Psalm 82 as a framework for understanding the complexities of this issue and outlines the dissertation's approach within the context of integrative theology.

Chapter 2 - Understanding the Role of an African Traditional Justice System in Nigerian Sex Trafficking Cases: This chapter delves into the intricacies of the African traditional justice system in Nigeria, particularly focusing on the role of deities as enforcers of justice, oath-taking temples, and the concept of juju. It examines how these traditional practices and beliefs are intertwined with the issue of sex trafficking, showcasing how the exploitation of women corrupts the numinous-judicial power inherent in these systems. The chapter underscores the significance of understanding these cultural aspects to effectively address the problem.

Chapter 3 - Understanding Psalm 82: This chapter provides a comprehensive exegesis of Psalm 82, exploring its historical context and core interpretive issues. It establishes a framework for understanding the psalm through the lens of Ancient Near Eastern (ANE) concepts, including a 'cosmos as a polity' metaphor and the judicial role of the Elohim. The chapter meticulously analyzes each verse, interpreting its theological and exegetical significance, ultimately building a cohesive understanding of the psalm's central message concerning justice and divine judgment.

Frequently Asked Questions: A Dissertation on Nigerian Sex Trafficking in Europe Through the Lens of Psalm 82

What is the main topic of this dissertation?

This dissertation analyzes the phenomenon of Nigerian sex trafficking in Europe, focusing on the interplay between traditional African justice systems, spiritual beliefs (juju), and the challenges faced by survivors and aid organizations. It uses Psalm 82 as a framework for understanding and addressing these complexities.

What are the key themes explored in the dissertation?

Key themes include Nigerian sex trafficking within the European Union, the role of debt-bondage, the influence of African traditional justice systems and spiritual beliefs (juju) on survivors' experiences, an interpretation of Psalm 82 regarding injustice and divine judgment, and the application of Psalm 82 to develop narrative and ritual-judicial approaches to assisting survivors. Challenges faced by NGOs and authorities in providing effective support are also examined.

How does the dissertation utilize Psalm 82?

Psalm 82 serves as a theological and analytical framework. The dissertation interprets the Psalm within its Ancient Near Eastern (ANE) context, establishing a "cosmos as a polity" metaphor to understand the psalm's message concerning justice and divine judgment. This interpretation is then applied to the realities of Nigerian sex trafficking, offering potential narrative and ritual-judicial approaches to assisting survivors.

What aspects of the African Traditional Justice System are discussed?

The dissertation explores the role of deities as enforcers of justice, oath-taking temples, and the concept of juju within the Nigerian African Traditional Justice System. It examines how these traditional practices and beliefs are intertwined with sex trafficking, highlighting the corruption of numinous-judicial power through the exploitation of women.

What is the structure of the dissertation?

The dissertation is structured into four chapters. Chapter 1 provides an introduction, outlining the problem and introducing Psalm 82 as a framework. Chapter 2 delves into the African Traditional Justice System in Nigeria. Chapter 3 offers a detailed exegesis of Psalm 82. Chapter 4 applies the insights from Psalm 82 to the context of Nigerian sex trafficking, proposing narrative and ritual-judicial approaches to assisting survivors.

What types of assistance for survivors are considered?

The dissertation explores both narrative and ritual-judicial approaches to assisting survivors of sex trafficking (SOTS), drawing upon the themes and framework provided by Psalm 82. These approaches aim to address the complex spiritual, cultural, and systemic factors involved in the exploitation of these women.

Who are the key players involved in the issues discussed?

Key players include Nigerian women trafficked into Europe, Christian faith-based NGOs working to assist survivors, authorities attempting to combat sex trafficking, and those involved in the traditional justice systems within Nigeria. The dissertation highlights the challenges faced by all parties involved due to cultural and epistemological differences.

What is the overall aim of the dissertation?

The dissertation aims to offer a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding Nigerian sex trafficking in Europe, utilizing a unique interdisciplinary approach that combines theological interpretation, sociological analysis, and practical considerations for aiding survivors. It seeks to contribute to more effective strategies for combating this form of exploitation.