Theology of Resistance: The Sam Sharpe Revolt; The Politics of Religion

Theology of Resistance: The Sam Sharpe Revolt; The Politics of Religion

von Delroy A. Reid-Salmon

This book develops a comprehensive account of Black Atlantic Theology, grounded in the life and witness of Jamaican freedom fighter Sam Sharpe. Through four dimensions: Genealogical, Philosophical, Ethical, and Theological, it explores how Black Atlantic faith traditions respond to histories of slavery, colonialism, and resistance. At the heart of the book is the 1831–32 Sam Sharpe Revolt, a decisive moment in the abolition of slavery that remains theologically underexplored. Drawing on thinkers such as Albert Raboteau and Charles Long, the book highlights the transnational character of Black religion, connecting people of African descent across the Atlantic. It offers a theology of liberation that critically reflects on the past while envisioning a more just and humane future. Ultimately, this is a work of historical retrieval and constructive theology, illuminating how Black Atlantic faith traditions inform the pursuit of liberation, the reimagining of humanity, and the hope for a more just world. It is a perfect read for scholars interested in liberation theology, Black theology, as well as those interested in the interaction of religion and power.

This book develops a comprehensive account of Black Atlantic Theology, grounded in the life and witness of Jamaican freedom fighter Sam Sharpe. Through four dimensions: Genealogical, Philosophical, Ethical, and Theological, it explores how Black Atlantic faith traditions respond to histories of slavery, colonialism, and resistance. At the heart of the book is the 1831–32 Sam Sharpe Revolt, a decisive moment in the abolition of slavery that remains theologically underexplored. Drawing on thinkers such as Albert Raboteau and Charles Long, the book highlights the transnational character of Black religion, connecting people of African descent across the Atlantic. It offers a theology of liberation that critically reflects on the past while envisioning a more just and humane future. Ultimately, this is a work of historical retrieval and constructive theology, illuminating how Black Atlantic faith traditions inform the pursuit of liberation, the reimagining of humanity, and the hope for a more just world. It is a perfect read for scholars interested in liberation theology, Black theology, as well as those interested in the interaction of religion and power.

Delroy A. Reid-Salmon embraces the pastor-scholar model of ministry, which is deeply rooted in the Biblical witness, the historic tradition of the Christian faith, and the historical truths of the Black experience. As a pastor-scholar, Dr. Reid-Salmon believes the pastor’s role ought to be classified as an interpreter and model of the Christian faith, which requires personal, academic, and professional participation. In that regard, Dr. Reid-Salmon is a Visiting Research Associate at the Oxford Centre for Religion and Culture, Regent’s Park College, University of Oxford. He holds a PhD in Systematic Theology from the University of Birmingham, UK, a Master of Divinity degree from Harvard University Divinity School, and a Bachelor of Arts from Long Island University, NY. His publications include several scholarly articles and books; his most recent publication is an essay within The Oxford Handbook on Caribbean Religions (edited by Michelle Gonzalez Maldonado).

Highlights

• Reclaims Sam Sharpe’s revolt as a vital theological resource for Black Atlantic liberation Highlights the transnational nature of Black religion beyond U.S.-centered perspectives Bridges history, theology, and ethics to envision a just future for the Black Atlantic world

Über den Autor

Delroy A. Reid-Salmon embraces the pastor-scholar model of ministry, which is deeply rooted in the Biblical witness, the historic tradition of the Christian faith, and the historical truths of the Black experience. As a pastor-scholar, Dr. Reid-Salmon believes the pastor’s role ought to be classified as an interpreter and model of the Christian faith, which requires personal, academic, and professional participation. In that regard, Dr. Reid-Salmon is a Visiting Research Associate at the Oxford Centre for Religion and Culture, Regent’s Park College, University of Oxford. He holds a PhD in Systematic Theology from the University of Birmingham, UK, a Master of Divinity degree from Harvard University Divinity School, and a Bachelor of Arts from Long Island University, NY. His publications include several scholarly articles and books; his most recent publication is an essay within The Oxford Handbook on Caribbean Religions (edited by Michelle Gonzalez Maldonado).