THE PAIN OF BETRAYAL: AN ANALYTICAL STUDY OF PSALMS 41:9 AND 55:12–14 AND THE NKST TIV HYMN 2318 IN THE CONTEXT OF FAMILY CRISIS AND ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR CHRISTIANS IN AFRICA

Abstract

This study examines the multifaceted trauma of close-range betrayal by executing a comparative, contextual analysis of Psalm 41:9, Psalm 55:12–14, and the Universal Reformed Christian Church in Nigeria (NKST) Tiv Hymn 2318. Employing an interdisciplinary methodology that integrates historical-grammatical biblical exegesis, hymnological discourse analysis, and socio-theological correlation, the research investigates how ancient Near Eastern laments over fractured covenants intersect with contemporary African domestic realities. This study filtered the biblical text and the indigenous hymn composed by Rev. Ephraim Mbateren Shir through the lens of African Christian theology to analyze the structural drivers of familial discord. The findings reveal that the domestic sanctuary (ya-home) frequently mutates into a theater of psychological warfare for a family's primary "bread provider" due to economic strain, urbanization, and deep-seated cultural envy (iyuhe). Furthermore, this study finds that contemporary African Christians are often caught between Western individualistic therapeutic models and confrontational Neo-Pentecostal deliverance ministries that weaponize spiritual warfare narratives, thereby exacerbating domestic fractures. This research demonstrates that both the Psalter and Tiv hymnody offer a counter-narrative to mutual suspicion. Ultimately, this study articulates a cruciform, non-retaliatory model of resilience and boundary management. It concludes by offering a balanced pastoral framework that prioritizes holistic counseling, systemic conflict resolution, and the construction of authentic ecclesial communities (koinonia) as an alternative family for the brokenhearted within African Christianity