Explain the concept of time according to John Mbithi in the ontological theory.

 Time as a communal concept: Mbithi believed that in traditional African societies, time was not
viewed as an individual concept but rather a communal one. Time was seen as something that
was shared among members of a community and used to organize communal activities such as
planting and harvesting crops, holding ceremonies, and celebrating important events.

 Time as cyclical: African Communitarianism sees time as cyclical, rather than linear. In other
words, time is not seen as a straight line moving from past to present to future, but rather as a
series of repeating cycles that are tied to the natural rhythms of life. These cycles can be marked
by seasonal changes, lunar cycles, or other natural events.

 Time as flexible: Mbithi argued that time in African Communitarianism was a flexible concept
that could be adjusted to fit the needs of the community. For example, important events such as
funerals or weddings might be celebrated for several days, rather than being restricted to a
specific moment in time.

 Time as linked to social relationships: In African Communitarianism, time is intimately linked to

social relationships and community life. Time is seen as a shared resource that is used to
organize communal activities and events, and to build and maintain social ties between
members of the community.

 Time as a resource: Mbithi believed that time was a valuable resource that should be used
wisely and shared fairly among members of the community. This meant that individuals were
expected to contribute their time and labor to communal activities, and to help their neighbors
when needed.

 Time as linked to history: According to Mbithi, time in African Communitarianism is closely

linked to the concept of history. History is not seen as a linear progression of events, but rather
an ongoing process that is constantly being shaped by the actions and interactions of individuals
and communities.

 Time as part of the natural world: In African Communitarianism, time is viewed as part of the
natural world and is closely tied to the rhythms and cycles of nature. This means that time is not
seen as something that can be controlled or manipulated by humans, but rather as a natural
force that must be respected and understood.
  Time as tied to spirituality: Mbithi believed that time in African Communitarianism was closely
tied to spirituality and religious beliefs. Time was seen as a reflection of the divine order of the
universe and was often used to mark important religious festivals and ceremonies.

 Time as a source of identity: In African Communitarianism, time is seen as a source of identity

and a way of marking one’s place within the community. This means that important events such
as births, deaths, and marriages are often marked by communal ceremonies that help to
establish a person’s identity within the community.

 Time as a source of meaning: Mbithi argued that time in African Communitarianism was a
source of meaning and purpose in life. Communal activities and events were seen as important
ways of creating meaning and fostering a sense of belonging and purpose within the
community.

 Time as linked to the ancestors: In African Communitarianism, time is closely tied to the
ancestors and the ongoing legacy of the community. Communal ceremonies and events often
honor the ancestors and their contributions to the community, and time is seen as a way of
connecting the present generation with the past.

 Time as a way of building community: Finally, Mbithi believed that time in African
Communitarianism was an important way of building and maintaining community. Communal
activities and events that are organized around the concept of time help to strengthen

General ideas of John Mbithi in the

ontological theory
John Mbiti was a Kenyan theologian and philosopher who developed the Ontological theory of African
Communitarianism. Here are some of the general ideas that Mbithi put forth in his theory:
  Communalism: Mbithi believed that the community is the most important unit of social
organization in African societies. He argued that people are defined by their relationships with
others, and that communalism is the foundation of African identity and culture.

 Spirituality: Mbithi emphasized the importance of spirituality in African Communitarianism. He

argued that African people are deeply religious and that their spirituality is reflected in their
beliefs, rituals, and values.

 Time: Mbithi believed that time is a flexible and dynamic concept in African societies. He argued
that time is not seen as a linear concept, but rather as cyclical and closely tied to the natural
world and social relationships.

 Humanism: Mbithi placed a strong emphasis on humanism in his theory. He argued that African
societies value human dignity and respect for individual rights and freedoms.

 Respect for Elders: Mbithi emphasized the importance of respect for elders in African societies.
He argued that elders are seen as repositories of knowledge and wisdom, and that they play a
vital role in the community.

 Ubuntu: Mbithi highlighted the concept of Ubuntu, which emphasizes the interconnectedness
of all people and the importance of compassion, empathy, and community in African societies.

 Oral Tradition: Mbithi emphasized the importance of oral tradition in African

Communitarianism. He argued that African societies have a rich tradition of storytelling and that
this oral tradition is an important way of passing down knowledge and values from one
generation to the next.

Overall, Mbithi’s Ontological theory of African Communitarianism emphasizes the importance of

community, spirituality, and humanism in African societies. He argued that African people have a unique
way of understanding the world, and that this understanding is reflected in their beliefs, values, and
social practices.