The Influence of Dowry Payment on the Stability of Christian Marriages Among Methodist Church Members in the Nairobi Synod, Kenya

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to examine the influence of dowry payment on the stability of Christian marriages among methodist church members in the Nairobi Synod, Kenya. The study adopted a mixed-method design targeting married couples in the Synod. Using purposive sampling, 194 respondents were drawn from 17 Circuits (population 4,010). Data was collected through questionnaires and interview guides via the Open Data Kit platform, capturing both quantitative and qualitative insights. Piloting ensured validity and reliability. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive, inferential, and regression methods, while qualitative data underwent thematic and content analysis. Findings were presented through percentages, frequencies, tables, and thematic summaries, adhering to ethical guidelines. The regression analysis shows that for every unit increase in dowry payment practices, marriage stability increases by 0.148 units, with this relationship being statistically significant (p < 0.001). The findings challenge common Western Christian views that often see dowry practices as problematic or incompatible with Christian values. The research concludes that dowry payment practices, when properly aligned with Christian values and integrated within ecclesiastical frameworks, significantly strengthen marital stability rather than undermining it. This finding challenge prevailing Western Christian perspectives that often view dowry practices as culturally incompatible with Christian marriage principles. The positive relationship between dowry payments and marital stability demonstrates the potential for successful inculturation when cultural practices are thoughtfully contextualized within Christian theological frameworks. The recommendations are that the church leadership might consider implementing comprehensive training programs for clergy that focus on mediating cultural-religious integrations, particularly in areas such as dowry negotiations, using liturgical frameworks as reconciling tools. This training could equip pastors with cultural competency skills, theological frameworks for evaluating traditional practices, and practical strategies for facilitating successful inculturation. The program might address common challenges in cultural-religious integration.