”From one ancestor he made all peoples to inhabit the whole earth. He allotted the times of their existence and the boundaries of the places where they would live. This was done so that they would search for God. They might search for him and find him. Indeed, he is not far from each one of us.”
Reflecting on Acts 17:26 and the Harmful Consequences of Division
Acts 17:26 reminds us of a profound truth. “From one man He made all the nations.” They should inhabit the whole earth. He marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. This scripture speaks to the unity and shared origin of humanity, a divine design that underscores equality and interconnectedness. Yet, the persistent human tendency to “other” remains. This tendency to separate and alienate opposes the message of unity that God intended. Othering involves treating individuals or groups as fundamentally different and alien. It signifies a destructive force within society. This act is a rejection of God’s creation. It is also an affront to the shared dignity of humanity.
Understanding Othering
Othering is a harmful process of categorizing people based on perceived differences. These differences could pertain to race, ethnicity, religion, gender, or sexual orientation. It creates divisions between an “in-group,” often linked to privilege and power. The “out-group” is perceived as lacking or inferior. This division is not merely superficial. It creates hierarchies. The “Other” is excluded, marginalized, and treated as less deserving of dignity, respect, and opportunities.
Defining the “Other”
The first step in othering is identifying the “Other”—those who are deemed different based on arbitrary markers. These markers could be cultural practices, physical appearance, beliefs, or lifestyle choices. These distinctions are often exaggerated or misrepresented to foster a sense of estrangement.
Creating Hierarchy
Once the “Other” is defined, society often assigns them a position of inferiority. They are portrayed as less intelligent, less moral, or less capable. Such hierarchical thinking directly contradicts the message of Acts 17:26. This passage emphasizes that all nations and peoples are of one origin. They are equal in their creation and purpose.
Exclusion and Marginalization
Othering manifests in visible ways, like exclusion from social, political, and economic opportunities. Those categorized as the “Other” may find themselves marginalized. They might be incapable of accessing the resources, rights, and recognition afforded to the privileged “in-group.”
Negative Stereotypes
Fueling the process of othering are harmful stereotypes that reinforce the perception of the “Other” as inherently flawed or threatening. These stereotypes strip individuals of their humanity, reducing them to caricatures that serve to justify their mistreatment.
The Impact of Othering
The consequences of othering ripple across both individual and societal levels, sowing division, prejudice, and injustice. While othering may begin as subtle bias, its effects can escalate into systemic oppression and even violence.
Prejudice and Discrimination
At an individual level, othering fosters prejudice—an unfair judgment based on group identity rather than personal merit. This prejudice translates into discrimination, creating barriers to equality in schools, workplaces, and communities.
Dehumanization
At its extreme, othering strips individuals and groups of their humanity, reducing them to targets of violence and persecution. History is rife with examples of dehumanization, from the atrocities of genocide to the systemic oppression of minority groups.
Reduced Empathy
When people focus on differences and adopt an “us vs. them” mindset, they diminish their capacity for empathy. This lack of understanding erodes relationships, leaving communities fractured and vulnerable to conflict.
Social Division
Othering exacerbates social divisions, fostering alienation among marginalized groups. This division undermines societal cohesion, making it harder to work toward common goals and shared prosperity.
Examples of Othering
Othering takes many forms, and its manifestations can be seen across cultures and contexts. Here are some examples:
· Religious Exclusion: Treating individuals of different faiths as outsiders or enemies.
· Ethnic Prejudice: Assuming that people of certain ethnicities are less capable or civilized.
· Gender and Sexual Orientation Discrimination: Denying rights or opportunities based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Why Othering Contradicts God’s Will
Acts 17:26 highlights the shared origins and equality of humanity. It declares that all people are created by God with purpose and dignity. Othering violates this divine intention. It reduces individuals or groups to something less than the sacred beings God designed them to be.
Unity in Diversity
God’s creation of humanity is inherently diverse—different languages, cultures, and expressions of life are a testament to His creativity. Yet, this diversity is meant to be celebrated, not used as a basis for division. Othering blinds us to the beauty of diversity, replacing it with fear and prejudice.
Love Thy Neighbor
The Bible repeatedly calls us to love our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12:31). Othering, by contrast, denies this commandment, replacing love and empathy with judgment and exclusion. It is a rejection of the shared humanity that underpins our relationships.
Healing Through Reconciliation
To combat othering, we must dedicate ourselves to reconciliation—restoring relationships and fostering understanding between divided groups. This involves actively listening, challenging stereotypes, and advocating for equality.
How We Can Overcome Othering
As individuals and communities, we have the power to resist the forces of othering. We can work toward a world that reflects God’s vision of unity.
Embrace Diversity
Celebrate the richness of human diversity. See it as a reflection of God’s boundless creativity. It should not be a cause for division. Commit to learning about different cultures, perspectives, and experiences.
Promote Empathy
Empathy is the antidote to othering. By seeking to understand the lived experiences of others, we can recognize their humanity. This helps us to bridge divides and foster genuine connection.
Advocate for Equity
Work toward systems and policies that ensure fairness and justice for all, regardless of their identity. This includes challenging discriminatory practices and supporting marginalized communities.
Reflect God’s Love
Finally, let our actions reflect the love and compassion that God calls us to embody. Treat all people with dignity, seeing them not as “Others,” but as brothers and sisters in Christ.
Conclusion
Othering is a blight on humanity, a process that stands in direct opposition to God’s intention for His creation. Acts 17:26 reminds us of our shared origin and unity. It calls us to reject the forces of division. We are encouraged to embrace the interconnectedness of all people. We actively resist othering and promote reconciliation. In doing so, we honor God’s design. This contributes to a world that truly reflects His love and purpose.
In His Service,
Minister A. Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 