A Cultural Question

Mea e 'ai e tatau ma le aso
"At the end of the ten days they looked healthier and better nourished than any of the young men who ate the royal food." (Daniel 1:15)

Yesterday, we talked about how culture can sometimes conflict with Jesus teachings.  As Samoans, we are part of  a "living culture" passed down through generations that is miraculously maintained even today.  As Christain's however, changes in some of our culture require adjustments.

In (Daniel 1:15) story, the Babylonians were trying to change the thinking of these Jews by giving them a Babylonian education, their loyalty by changing their names, and their life-style by changing their diet.  You see, the Jews kept and honored God's original diet for man.  (see Genesis 1:29)

Without compromising, Daniel found a way to live by God’s standards in a culture that did not honor God. Wisely choosing to negotiate rather than to rebel, Daniel suggested an experimental ten-day diet of vegetables and water, instead of the royal foods of meat and wine the king offered.

Without compromising, Daniel quickly thought of a creative solution that saved his life and the lives of his friends.  As God’s people, we also may adjust to our culture as long as we do not compromise God’s laws & principles.

There is real beauty and excellence recognized in any culture.  Daniel and his friends learned all they could about their new culture so they could do their work with excellence and honor.

But while they learned their new culture in Babylon, they maintained steadfast allegiance to God, and did not compromise their allegiance.  And God rewarded them with skills and wisdom, which the King of Babylon so impressed, he elevated Daniel and his friends to high positions in government.

Culture doesn't  have to be God’s enemy.  If it does not violate his commands or principles, it can aid in accomplishing his purpose, even elevating your status as in this story.  There is a term we hear often in Samoa, "Ua ao Samoa" (Samoa has received the light of understanding).

However, as a Christian nation, part of our Samoan cultural we practice today are based from pagan traditions and practices. For example, the (Sua)

We who follow Jesus are free to partake and be competent leaders within our culture, but as baptized Christians, we must be careful, as we are required to pledge our allegiance to God first, and not compromise Jesus teachings, through pagan rituals.

If you have any doubts as to what to partake or not to partake of in your cultural traditions, just ask yourself this question.   What would Jesus do?

Ia manuia,

failauga p. anoa'i