Abstract EN:

In this work of theology which includes a gathering of ethnological materials, we present a collection of traditional prayers from the aja-fon of Benin. These have been transcribed and then studied for their style of expression, their content, and lastly the circumstances in which they are used. This study has permitted a separation out of the fundamental characteristics of prayer practiced by the fon. It has also suggested an anthropology which is both general, and sufficiently particular, concerning prayer as a category of oral religious action in the manner in which certain anthropologists have tried to make their studies. Once the anthropological language was deciphered, we have tried to propose a hermeneutic for this religious patrimony. In order to do this, we have proceeded to a rereading of these prayers of the fon people in the light of Christian revelation. We have also looked at the theological criteria for all prayer and especially prayer in common done in the Roman Catholic Church. The question treated is to show in what way the traditional aja-fon prayers represent a preparation for what Christ came to fulfill.