An Interface of the Old Testament Concept of Shalom and the Esan Socio-Cultural Concept of Ọfure: Its Implications for Holistic Societal Development

This paper explores the interface between the Old Testament concept of shalom and the Esan socio-cultural notion of ọfure. Shalom and ọfure encompass peaceful community, justice, wholeness, right relationships, harmony and overall well-being. A framework of relational cosmology, transformational development, and conflict transformation was adopted. Qualitative methods, including textual analysis of Scriptures and Esan oral traditions were used. Interviews and community case studies reveal that Esan elders conceptualise ọfure as peace in justice, well-being, and social harmony, maintained through restorative mediation. The integration of shalom and ọfure paradigms is apt for holistic development and enhanced social harmony in Esan land.