During a recent interview on Obinna TV, Pastor T shared his personal reflections on polygamy, stating clearly that his conviction remains rooted in monogamy.
“One man, one wife. It takes a lot to keep two women emotionally, financially and psychologically. I believe this is the order God established, and there was a reason why He set it that way.”
He added that while polygamy exists in different societies, it is not a structure he believes works sustainably for him, especially when considering emotional and social responsibilities within marriage.
Culture, faith and environment
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Pastor T went on to explain that views on marriage are often shaped by upbringing, culture and surrounding values, rather than a single universal lens.
He pointed to Kikuyu traditions, where polygamy was once linked to wealth and social status.
“In Kikuyu culture, it was a sign of wealth. So I say perspectives on things are shaped by the environment. There was a time we had that argument, and I told someone, A Christian cheating on his wife is seen as wrong, but a Muslim bringing home three wives is seen as religion.”
He emphasised that different communities interpret marriage through different belief systems, making it difficult to apply one blanket judgement across all cultures.
“So it is possible for me to grow up in a Christian environment and for another person to grow up in a Muslim environment. How we view marriage is dictated by environment and its values.”
Global perspective on marriage norms
The pastor further noted that even within Christianity and beyond Africa, cultural practices differ significantly, shaping behaviour that may be misunderstood when viewed from another context.
He gave an example from Europe:
“When you understand culture, you sit with people and understand where they come from. In England, you may find a pastor invites you for lunch, and there is a drink. In their culture, drinking before food is a tradition, not a sin. They do not drink to get drunk; it is a social thing.”
He contrasted this with Kenya, where alcohol consumption is often associated with excess or social harm.
“In Kenya, it is often different; it can be linked to misuse or revenge behaviour.”
Understanding before judgement
Pastor T concluded by urging people to engage more deeply with cultural backgrounds before forming rigid opinions on marriage and social practices.
“Sometimes you cannot apply a blanket cover. You must understand where someone is coming from before you bring your view.”
