Singing with the Soil: Exploring African Diasporic Farming Traditions and Theological Connections

Abstract:

In this presentation, we seek to reclaim the spiritual roots of farming. Though farming is often associated with the means of providing food for sustenance, it is so much more. In most places in rural Africa, working the land took on cultural, social, and spiritual meaning. The farming practice was often accompanied by the use of rhythms, sounds, and songs. This approach towards working the land is unfortunately being lost over time. When engaging members of communities still practicing singing with the soil, they share that these songs help them connect with their culture, creation, and the Creator. The lyrics of such songs share profound truths, often referencing religious beliefs. Spirituals arise organically from individuals based on their lived experiences and feelings as they connect with the land.

The views reflected in these farming traditions may seem strange and superstitious to some Western thinkers. However, careful examination reveals the practice encourages love, community, belonging, heritage preservation, and respect for creation and the Creator. These values impact one’s perception of and relationship with the land. The songs bless both the workers and the soil. Chanting prayers and making music while tending the soil enhances our sensitivity to creation’s needs. By embracing the understanding that “everything breathing contributes to one song,” we ground our identity within an interconnected, melody-rich land (adamah) and other parts of creation.

This research considers how spiritual and ecological practices open possibilities for reciprocally caring for the sonic and sensing environments that sustain collective thriving. Cultivating this sensibility of interconnection sparks greater motivation for conservation and collective movement. It protects the sacred art of sustainably, purposefully working the land, growing food, and nurturing the spirit. By expanding participation in these practices that resist extractive capitalism, we revive rituals that support flourishing ecosystems throughout the migration of the African diaspora.

Bios:

Dr. Stephanie Boddie is an Associate Professor of Church and Community Ministries. At Baylor University, she is affiliated with the Diana R. Garland School of Social Work, George W. Truett Seminary, the School of Education and the Environmental Humanities Minor program. She is currently professor extraordinarius at University of South Africa. She developed the course Education from a Gardener’s Perspective based on permaculture principles and eco-womanist perspectives. She is the principal investigator for the Sustainable Community and Regenerative Agriculture Project (S.C.R.A.P.). Boddie also participates in initiatives at University of Pennsylvania, Washington University in St. Louis, and the University of Michigan. Boddie was the 2015-2016 CAUSE fellow at Carnegie Mellon University. During her CAUSE fellowship, she created the musical documentary, Unfinished Business: From the Great Migration to Black Lives Matter. She has co-authored over 70 publications including several books. She is a graduate of Johns Hopkins University and University of Pennsylvania.  

Isaiah Baba is pursuing a Master of Divinity at Baylor University’s Truett Seminary and graduating May 2024. He is a resident chaplain where he leads worship and designs spiritual growth programs blending Christian practices with cultural humility. Isaiah has a Master of Science in Journalism from the University of Illinois and also holds a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness with a major in climate change and food security from the University of Development Studies, Ghana. He has experience reporting for investigative units and advising on best practices for sharing messages, as well as two years of professional working experience as a communications officer for agricultural projects in Ghana, West Africa. Isaiah also preaches in churches in Texas, has served in camps, led Bible studies, and mentored youth. His heart for service and leadership shines both in Ghana and the United States. He has served as Dr. Boddie’s research assistant.