The concept of sedik el aziz/sedika el aziza (genuine friendship) among the Sudanese muslims at Malakia in Juba and its missiological implications for christian witness

Abstract

The study attempts to investigate the concept of sedik el aziza / sedika el aziza (genuine friendship) among the Sudanese Muslims at Malakia in Juba and its missiological implications for Christian witness. Twenty selected Muslim informants were the main sources of information for this study. Three main research questions were designed to help carry out the study: firstly, what do you understand about sedik el aziza / sedika el aziza as a Muslim in Malakia? This is to help the researcher to understand the emic view on the concept as perceived by the Muslims. Secondly, what impact do you think sedik el aziz / sedika el aziza relationships have on the communal life of the Muslim in social life, economical life and political life? This is to help the researcher to understand the impact on socio-economical and political life of the Muslim. And thirdly, in what ways do you think sedik el aziz / sedika el aziza relationships impact the religious decision making of a Muslim. The intent is to help the researcher to understand the impact it has on a Muslim's decision making especial in relation to conversion. Also, the researcher had some ethnographic observations on Muslim relations in three places: restaurant, tea shop and some shops. The results show that sedik el aziz / sedika el aziza is a cordial relationships between two individuals or more and is derived from the Muslim concept of Ummah, over and against the tribal or national identity. It is primarily based on true love; actions of kindness, trust and confidence which involves the idea of honesty as well. Socio-economically and politically, sedik el aziz / sedika el aziza impact both Positively and negatively depending on the common interest. For instance in social life, it impacts the behavior (or life style) and views either positively or negatively. Economically, there is inter-dependency where the individual friends depend on each other. Also, there is an element of economic empowerment when one is not financially stable or of life skill training for those who are in need. However, at times there is economic dependency, which has negative impact. Regarding politics, most friends seem to come from the same political persuasion though, at times, some are from different persuasions. But the key in the relationship is respect for each other. Regarding the impact on religious decision making, the following were found: knowing the interest of the un believing friend comes high. The life of iman (or faith) or living an exemplary life as a Muslim is second in rating and associating with the unbelieving friend might cause him/ her to decide for iman was also rated. Based on these findings, it becomes necessary for the Sudanese Christians at Malakia in Juba to consider these characteristics as significant in establishing, promoting and maintaining meaningful relationships with their Muslim neighbours.