African American Lit Essay Example

Religion is the main theme that has come out in the novel ‘Go Tell it On the Mountain’. This has been revealed through the different roles played by the characters and more especially john and his step father Gabriel. These two males live with a guilty conscience until when they reach a point and realise that they need to be born again. John is prompted into salvation by the need to be loved and appreciated by his father whom he is not even aware that it is his stepfather. On the other hand, Gabriel is convicted by his own sinful nature and realises the need to give his life to Christ. The fact that the novel is set in a biblical context also makes it inclined more to religion and religious beliefs. Everything in the book revolves around the need for the characters to live a life pleasing to God as well as show service to their fellow human beings.
Religion is not just about an individual person but simply living a godly life in order to improve relationships. Wherever there are strict religious beliefs, there are usually conflicts where different characters differ basing on certain believes. This has been reflected in the bible even as members of an extended family try to get along with each other. Religion is also characterised by religious leaders who ultimately become mentors especially to those who are young and weak in faith. In the novel, Elisha plays such a role towards John, and not only mentors him but also ensures that he grows strong. In the journey of religious faith, believers usually go through certain trials and temptations which are meant to make them grow deeper in revelation. John, who realises that, despite his religious transformation, he is not still appreciated by his father, has displayed such trials.
Religion is usually considered the best and ultimate solution for issues that are faced by human kind. It is, however, unfortunate that most people turn to religion as a last resort especially when all the alternatives have failed. Most of the characters in the novel such as john and Gabriel resolve to religion when things around them seem not to favour them. Just as displayed in the novel, most people are given the assurance that once they get into strict observance of religious believes, their problems and issues will disappear. However, one realises that the closer they get to God, the more battles they have to face, it actually takes quite some time before a person realises that the issues may not necessarily change, but they will have a positive attitude towards such trials.
Despite the challenges that such characters go through, the ultimate message of the book is on the importance of paying allegiance to the sovereign creator. Religion remains to be the best way through which a person can mend relationships with those around. We realise that life is all about having good relationships with people by understanding and empathising with their needs. The road towards seeking spiritual fulfilment takes a person through different seasons that make them to not only appreciate themselves but also other people around them. Once this has been accomplished, a person will learn how to handle different categories of people around them without necessarily having to pick up issues with them. After reading the novel, I now understand how religion is the ultimate solution to human issues.