THE SHEMA (DEUT. 6:4-9): A PANACEA TO MORAL DECADENCE AMONG NIGERIAN YOUTHS

Abstract

This study critically explores the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4-9) as a theological
and pedagogical resource for addressing the rising moral decadence among
Nigerian youths. The research sets out to achieve three core objectives: first,
to conceptualize the phenomenon of moral decadence within the Nigerian
socio-cultural context; second, to do an exegetical analysis of Deuteronomy
6:4-9; and third, to evaluate the relevance of the Shema as a transformative
model for moral regeneration. Using an analytical research methodology, this
study employed a historical-grammatical approach to Deuteronomy 6:4–9,
analyzing key Hebrew terms and syntax within their covenantal-historical
context, complemented by theological reflection on the text’s ethical and
religious significance for Israel’s identity and faithfulness. The study also
relied on primary sources such as the Hebrew Bible and lexicons, alongside
secondary materials including scholarly publications, encyclopedias, and
online resources. The exegesis of the Shema reveals its enduring ethical
imperatives rooted in love for God, intentional teaching, and generational
transmission of values. When contextualized within African communal values
and kinship-based learning systems, the Shema offers a robust moral
framework capable of guiding youth formation. By integrating biblical
interpretation with Albert Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory, the study
proposes a multidimensional model for youth reformation, highlighting the
reciprocal influence of personal agency, environment, and modeled behavior.
The paper further advocates for intergenerational collaboration involving
families, especially fathers, faith-based institutions, policymakers, and media
actors to restore moral consciousness. The study recommends the revival of
family-based instruction, indigenous mentoring systems, and the development
of culturally grounded, value-driven media. This paper contributes to
scholarly discourse in biblical studies, African moral thought, youth
development, and practical theology, offering an actionable framework for
future research and community-based interventions.