Silenced languages: Probing biblical texts and South African context post-colonially

Abstract

he marginalisation of languages by colonial and apartheid structures distorted cultural identities, obstructing the power and independence of various communities. In this article, I probe the ongoing oppression of languages, especially native languages, and the concerted efforts to decolonise them by drawing parallels between Revelation 7:9, Isaiah 19:18 and Psalm 137 as well as the South African context. I aim to unmask the decolonisation of oppressed languages through the three selected biblical scriptures using post-colonial theory. This article makes three notable findings. Firstly, Revelation 7:9 depicts a varied, multilingual heavenly community, affirming that linguistic multiplicity transcends earthly segregations and mirrors spiritual inclusion. Secondly, Isaiah 19:18 presents a vision of linguistic transformation where Egyptians adopt the language of Canaan, symbolising a shift towards collective identity and religious unity, thus underlining the power of language in advancing inclusivity. Thirdly, Psalm 137 expresses the agony and resilience of the Israelites in a foreign land, exemplifying how language serves as both a repository of cultural identity and a tool of insubordination against assimilation. Collectively, these findings mean that intellectualising sidelined languages nurtures a sense of belonging and solidarity. Above all, this article draws connections with contemporary South Africa, where revitalising indigenous languages echoes the biblical themes of decolonisation.

Contribution: This article contributes to the scholarship on language decolonisation by blending post-colonial sociolinguistics and post-colonial biblical critique to uncover how biblical texts inform contemporary efforts to revitalise sidelined languages and cultural identities in South Africa and beyond.