Genesis 31:22 – 42 and Civil Liberties of Domestic Workers in Owerri Municipal Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines Gen.31:22 – 42 and civil liberties of domestic workers in Owerri, Imo State Nigeria. This biblical narrative on the servitude of Jacob under Laban reverberates his experiences which include abusive working condition, excessive workloads, inadequate legal protection, lack of autonomy among others akin to the experience of domestic workers in Owerri. This study aims to give an analysis of Gen 31:22 - 42 with regard to the civil liberties of domestic workers in Owerri and provide practical guidance for both research and practices, unearthing how ancient ethical principles can inform contemporary employer-domestic worker relationships. This study employed exegetical design and narrative analysis methodology, which is a cluster of analytical method for the interpretation of stories and histories, which helped to understand the prevalent life situation in the time of Jacob for proper application. From the findings, domestic workers in Owerri suffer exploitation, cheat, abuse, forced labour, marginalization among others. The study recommends more legislative efforts and biblical teachings to protect domestic workers.