Biblical Understanding of Ecology: The Spiritual and Economic Benefits of Mountains as a Vehicle for Sustainability in Nigeria

Abstract

Mountains and hills hold profound significance in African religious traditions, both indigenous and orthodox, mirroring their importance in biblical narratives, particularly to the people of Israel. They feature prominently in the stories of Moses, the prophets, and Jesus Christ. In Nigeria, the concept of Prayer Mountains is integral to Christian practice, serving as dedicated spaces for spiritual exercises. These locations, including mountain tops, groves, forests, and river banks, are particularly significant within African Indigenous Churches (AICS). Despite existing literature on mountains, this study delves into their spiritual and economic benefits, focusing on their potential for sustainability in Nigeria. Employing historical, contextual and hermeneutical research methods, the paper explores the religious and economic value attributed to natural landmarks, specifically mountains and hills. It concludes that Nigeria stands to gain substantially from leveraging mountains as a tool for sustainability, emphasizing the multifaceted benefits they offer to the nation.