An Introduction to and Source for Ethnodoxology

"Ethnodoxology" is the unofficial term for the Christian worship portions of ethnomusicology, that is the study of music of different cultures from across the globe. As music of the local culture has always played an important role in the corporate worship of the local church, ethnomusicology has played an important role in many missionary endeavors as of late. We have Christian ethnomusicologists helping to understand music of different cultures and write worship songs in such genres. Ministerial efficacy has increased when people can sing to their Savior.

As someone with a music comp degree, I can tell you the work of my ethnodoxologist friends is not easy. We tend to be very reliant on the Western notation and structure, and it's hard to operate out of that box. But merely listening to people joyfully worship our Savior and celebrate the Gospel in unfamiliar languages, unfamiliar musical accompaniment and instruments, etc. easily teaches me about how big and masterfully-creative our God is.

So here's a salute to ethnodoxology, and here's a link to learn more.