Northey Lecture - Nasili Vaka'uta

Rereading the Bible in/under Stolen (Is)Lands: from Oceania to Palestine

This lecture dives into the theological and interpretive challenges presented by biblical narratives of election, particularly their profound impact on indigenous communities in colonised regions. By focusing on Oceania and Palestine, the discussion investigates how the notion of being a "chosen people" has been historically leveraged to justify colonial violence and territorial dispossession. Through a critical analysis of biblical texts and their interpretations, the lecture explores the stark contrast between the biblical promise of land and the harsh realities of indigenous displacement and marginalisation.  A comparative study of Oceania and Palestinian liberation theologies will highlight the complexities and contradictions in using the Bible as both an instrument of colonial oppression and a wellspring of spiritual resilience and resistance. This presentation advocates for a Moana approach to biblical interpretation, challenging traditional readings of election and land in favour of perspectives that uphold indigenous rights and sovereignty. Ultimately, the lecture aims to enrich our understanding of the Bible's role in shaping past and present struggles for justice and liberation, offering insights into how sacred texts can support contemporary movements for equity and autonomy. 

Dr. Nasili Vaka’utu 

Principal & Ranston Lecturer in Biblical Studies, Trinity Theological College, Auckland NZ

Dr. Nasili Vaka’utu is the Regional Editor for SBL's International Voices in Biblical Studies (IVBS) series, and a member of Colloquium's Editorial Board. He is also a member of the Aotearoa-NZ Association of Biblical Scholars (ANZABS), Society of Asian Biblical Scholars (SABS), Society of Biblical Literature (SBL) and co-founder of Oceania Biblical Studies Association (OBSA). He is the author of Reading Ezra 9-10 Tu'awise (SBL, 2011), co-edited Bible and Art, Perspectives from Oceania (with Carolyne Blyth, Bloomsbury, 2017), and also published several book chapters and peer-reviewed articles.

Date: Tuesday 16 September 2025

Location: Centre for Theology and Ministry, 29 College Crescent

Time: 5.30pm dinner, lecture commences at 6.45pm

Cost: Free