Faith as a Resource in Addressing Intimate Partner Violence: A South African Perspective

South African women live in one of the most violent, yet most religious societies in the world. Whilst around 90% of its population ascribe to religious practice, it is estimated that every 26 seconds a woman is raped and that one in four women finds herself in an abusive relationship (Jewkes & Abrahams, 2002). The legacy of an institutionalized violent apartheid and colonialism is flagged as a key contributing factor for the violent nature of the South African society where women and children live in constant fear of being assaulted or raped.

Research also points out that many victims / survivors use faith as a coping mechanism and they often approach their religious leaders and faith communities for help. On the other hand, perpetrators often use easily misinterpreted scriptures, religious teachings and cultural practices to support abusive behavior. In some countries like the USA, domestic violence training programs and various resources are available to equip clergy and their faith communities. This is not yet fully the case in South Africa. The South African Faith and Family Institute, a multi-faith non-profit organization mobilizes and capacitates faith communities in the quest to prevent and intervene with individuals and families who are afflicted by or vulnerable to domestic violence.