African Philosophy Meets Stoicism: Insights from Zera Yacob

Zera Yacob: The Ethiopian Rationalist

Let's beging by attempting to agree on a working defination of African Stoicism; in my opinion, African Stoicism isn’t about silence, it’s the still strength of ancient wisdom woven into the communal fire of African tradition. It lives in story, in struggle, and in the quiet power passed down, not written down.

Zera Yacob (1600–1693) was an Ethiopian philosopher best known for his treatise, Hatata ("The Inquiry"). Born near Aksum, Ethiopia, Yacob received a traditional Orthodox Christian education but later developed a philosophical approach grounded in rational inquiry over religious dogma. His ideas share similarities with Enlightenment liberalism, advocating for reason and individual autonomy.

Yacob's life took a dramatic turn when religious persecution forced him into exile. Seeking refuge in a cave, he wrote Hatata in 1667 at the request of his patron's son, Walda Heywat. In this work, Yacob explores themes of reason, morality, and religious tolerance, emphasizing intellectual independence and ethical living. He believed that truth is discovered through critical self-examination and that all individuals, regardless of gender or faith, deserve equal respect.

His concept of the "light of reason in the heart" parallels the Stoic belief in inner reason as a guide to virtuous living. Like the Stoics, Yacob emphasized that individuals should critically examine their beliefs rather than accept them blindly. Yet, his rationalism did not reject faith; rather, he saw God as a compassionate and wise creator, blending reason with spiritual devotion.

Comparison to Stoicism:

• Both Yacob and the Stoics valued rational self-examination as a path to wisdom.

• Yacob's emphasis on religious tolerance mirrors the Stoic belief in universal brotherhood.

• His advocacy for equality aligns with Stoic ideas of justice and virtue.

Anton-Wilhelm Amo: The African Philosopher in 18th Century Europe

Anton-Wilhelm Amo (c. 1700–c. 1759) was a Nzema philosopher from present-day Ghana. As a child, he was taken to Europe by the Dutch West India Company and presented to the Dukes of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel. Despite these circumstances, Amo became the first African to earn an advanced degree in a European university and later taught philosophy in Germany.

Amo's academic journey began at the University of Halle, where he studied law and wrote his first dissertation challenging the legal basis of enslaving Africans in Europe. He later pursued philosophy at Wittenberg, excelling in logic, metaphysics, and ethics. Fluent in six languages, Amo made significant contributions to European philosophical discourse.

His most notable work, On the Impassivity of the Human Mind (1734), argues that the mind is an active, immaterial substance that cannot be affected by physical sensations. This perspective challenges Cartesian dualism and aligns with Stoic thought, which emphasizes mental discipline and resilience in the face of external challenges.

Key Themes in Amo’s Work:

• The mind is separate and unaffected by the body, similar to the Stoic belief in mastering emotions through reason.

• He advocated for intellectual rigor and self-mastery, echoing Stoic ideas on personal responsibility.

• Like Stoicism, his philosophy suggests detachment from external influences to maintain inner stability.

Broader African Philosophical Traditions

Zera Yacob and Anton-Wilhelm Amo were part of a broader tradition of African philosophical thought, which encompasses diverse ideas such as the concept of Ubuntu. Ubuntu, an ancient Bantu term, means "a person is a person through other persons," emphasizing community and interconnectedness.

Ubuntu resonates with Stoic teachings on cosmopolitanism, the idea that all people are part of a larger human family. Both philosophies promote mutual respect, social harmony, and the pursuit of virtue.

African Methods of Inquiry:

Communitarian approach: Prioritizes collective well-being and shared values.

Complementary approach: Encourages viewing issues from multiple perspectives.

Conversational approach: Engages in dialogue to explore opposing viewpoints.

These methods align with the Stoic focus on self-reflection and rational discourse, offering a uniquely African perspective on ethical living.

Rationality and Ethical Living in African and Stoic Thought

Both African philosophy and Stoicism emphasize the importance of reason as a tool for navigating life’s challenges. Yacob’s belief in reason as a universal human faculty (lebuna) aligns with the Stoic idea of logos, the rational order that governs the universe.

Similarly, Amo’s focus on the mind-body distinction reflects a Stoic commitment to valuing the mind over external circumstances. Both thinkers advocate for a life guided by rational thought and ethical conduct.

Stoic Parallels in African Thought:

• Wisdom: Seeking knowledge through reason and reflection.

• Justice: Treating all individuals with fairness and respect.

• Self-control: Focusing on what can be controlled, letting go of what cannot.

• Courage: Facing adversity with resilience and dignity.

Addressing Life’s Unpredictability: A Stoic and African Perspective

A core Stoic principle is the dichotomy of control, the idea that some things (our actions, thoughts) are within our control, while others (external events, others' opinions) are not. Epictetus emphasized this distinction in his Enchiridion, teaching that peace comes from focusing on what we can control.

Zera Yacob embodied this principle by turning inward during his exile, seeking solace in self-reflection and rational inquiry. Amo’s philosophy, emphasizing the mind’s independence from the physical world, similarly aligns with Stoic ideas of inner resilience.

Both philosophers demonstrate that true strength comes from within, a lesson applicable to modern challenges.

Modern Interpretations of Stoicism in Africa

Today, African thinkers continue to explore the connections between Stoicism and African philosophy. South African author Tiisetso Maloma has written about the intersections of Stoicism and Ubuntu, highlighting their shared focus on virtue, resilience, and self-improvement.

African proverbs and oral traditions also reflect Stoic principles, offering timeless wisdom on topics such as patience, endurance, and self-discipline.

Examples:

• The African proverb "Smooth seas do not make skillful sailors" mirrors Stoic teachings on hardship as a path to growth.

• The Stoic idea of practicing misfortune aligns with African traditions that emphasize humility and preparedness for life's uncertainties.

Conclusion

The philosophies of Zera Yacob and Anton-Wilhelm Amo highlight the universal nature of rational thought and ethical living. Their ideas challenge the perception that Stoicism is purely a Western tradition and show that its core principles; virtue, resilience, and rationality are deeply rooted in diverse cultures.

By exploring these connections, we gain a richer understanding of the shared human quest for wisdom across cultures and eras. Engaging with African thought alongside Stoicism not only fosters cross-cultural appreciation but also provides practical insights for navigating modern challenges with greater clarity and purpose.