Prophetic Histories: Time, Theology, and Theocracy in Solomon Islands
The influence of theology and prophecy on political imagination and theocratic constructions of society is the focus in a new book by anthropologist and 2021-2023 AIAS Fellow Jaap Timmer. The book is based on insights from years of field work on Malaita, studying prophetic movements and their impact on society.
The book Prophetic Histories: Time, Theology, and Theocracy in Solomon Islands, published on Berghahn Books, by Jaap Timmer, a 2021-2023 AIAS Fellow, Associate Professor of Anthropology at Macquarie University, Sydney, is a result of his AIAS project.
In the book, Jaap Timmer explores how an evangelical Israelite-inspired movement on Malaita in Solomon Islands interprets history as prophecy, weaving biblical narratives, kastom practices and political theology to envision a divinely guided future. Jaap Timmer examines how prophetic reasoning shapes governance and authority through local traditions, driving political aspirations and social change. These dynamics intersect with policy challenges around governance, religious pluralism and community resilience in the Pacific.
For policymakers, development practitioners and anyone working on state-building, cultural engagement or regional security, the book offers insights into how theology and prophecy influence political imagination and theocratic constructions of society.
More about the book
Prophetic Histories: Time, Theology, and Theocracy in Solomon Islands by Jaap Timmer, Berghahn Books, 2025: https://www.berghahnbooks.com/title/TimmerProphetic/
Berghahn offers a limited time 50% discount code TIMM2770, valid until 31 January 2026, on orders of this title placed directly via the Berghahn book webpage.
Contact
Jaap Timmer
E-mail: jaap.timmer@mq.edu.au
Associate Professor, Discipline Chair,
School of Communication, Society and Culture
Macquarie University, Sydney
Australia