This thesis is an exercise in foundational theology written by an indigenous Māori theologian of Aotearoa New Zealand. In the first chapter, the writer engages in dialogue with other theologians about the nature of contextual theology, particularly when viewed from an indigenous viewpoint. The writer then seeks to create some systematic foundations based on a series of concepts deeply rooted in Māori culture and history, namely: tapu, mana, pono, tika, aroha, tūranga and kaiwhakakapi tūranga, whakanoa, hohou rongo and te wā. Each concept is linked to form a foundational systematic theology. The writer addresses both kaupapa (principles) and tikanga (process, method) as foundations whereby such a theology can proceed. The writer intends this work to provide a resource for himself and for other indigenous theologians to articulate more specifically theological works that are culturally relevant to Māori, and that contribute to wider theological discussion.
Pa Henare taught for many years at the CIT, and as lecturer of the School of Theology. The thesis is a Phd thesis of the Melbourne College of Divinity, available from their research repository.
http://repository.mcd.edu.au/530/