Protecting the Earth: Leviticus 25 and Galamsey in Ghana

Abstract

Galamsey, Ghana's ongoing illegal mining crisis, persists despite legal interventions, indicating the need for theological engagement. This study employs Ossom-Batsa's communicative approach, integrating biblical exegesis with contextual analysis, to examine Lev. 25 through ecotheological hermeneutics. The research develops a contextual theology of earth stewardship by engaging Lev. 25 with galamsey practices and Ghanaian ecological ethics. The findings demonstrate that both Leviticus and Ghanaian ethics emphasize divine ownership, human stewardship, periodic land rest, and land's inalienability. Galamsey thus represents rebellion against divine proprietorship. The paper proposes an ecotheological reconstruction based on three pillars: (1) reaffirming divine land ownership as foundational for policy and education; (2) institutionalizing Sabbath ecology through legislated fallow periods and restoration programs; and (3) promoting Jubilee justice through land reclamation and equitable resource distribution. This framework offers an alternative approach to Ghana's ecological crisis.