“Christ Our ‘Ie Tōga: Contextualising Atonement Theology in Samoan Adventist Culture”

Abstract

This article explores a contextual theology of atonement using the ‘ie tōga (fine mat) as a cultural symbol of covering, reconciliation, 
and honour in Samoan society. It reads biblical texts about clothing, covering, priestly mediation, and peace through the lens of ifoga (formal reconciliation). It suggests that Jesus is the ultimate ‘ie tōga—the covering of righteousness, the mediator of peace, and the restorer of broken relationships. The paper also addresses a practical issue in Samoan Adventism: early missionaries banned the ‘ie tōga in church life. This ban arose from fear of syncretism and concerns that ifoga might bypass justice in serious crimes. We argue that the misuse of ‘ie tōga in the ifoga ceremony should not negate honourable, biblically grounded uses as a teaching tool. After examining the cultural meanings of the mat and the themes of covering, mediation, and peace in the Bible, a policy framework and guidelines are provided as a roadmap for SDA members in the SamoaTokelau Mission and those living abroad. The goal is for a solution that is theologically sound and pastorally feasible: Christ saves; the mat explains—without ritualising it, attributing spiritual power to it, or displacing legal or pastoral accountability.