Practical implication of Chiuta chinyetenyete :

a Tumbuka Concept of the Efficacious Omnipresence of God

Abstract

This article explores the deeper and richer meaning of the Tumbuka attribute Chiuta chinyetenyete, translated as the omnipresent God. It encourages exploration of the wealth underlying reflections on attributes of God in African languages for the purpose of forming a more contextual Christian faith. The attribute Chiuta chinyetenyete communicates God’s omnipresence with a unique concept of effectual and gentle, life-giving, and supporting flow of God’s presence. The church is discussed as a product of and an ingraft in the efficacious flow of the indiscriminate presence of God. The article also deliberates on the implications of believing in Chiuta chinyetenyete for the church, its formation, and the practice of faith. With data gathered through a qualitative literature review and observations, this article emphasises the need for the church to understand the flow of God and to flow in and with God’s presence so that its formation and exercise of faith vivify his efficacious omnipresence in all contexts.