Prophet Makandiwa’s Flat Earth Claim Sparks Scientific and Theological Backlash
- Southerton Business Times
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
In a statement that has triggered a firestorm of reaction both in Zimbabwe and abroad, prominent preacher Prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa has declared during a sermon that “the Earth is flat,” citing biblical verses in defense of his claim.
Makandiwa, founder of the United Family International Church (UFIC), referenced verses such as Isaiah 40:22 and Psalm 104:5, urging a literal interpretation of scripture to back his position. “The Scriptures are clear, and we must interpret them literally,” he told a packed congregation, drawing applause from supporters but raising alarms across education, science, and religious circles.
Criticism from Scientists and Religious Scholars Scientific experts quickly refuted the claims. “The Earth is a nearly perfect sphere. That’s not up for debate—it’s measurable, observable, and essential to how the modern world operates,” said Dr. Lisa Adair, a science educator at the University of Harare.
Dr. Adair emphasized the dangers of platforming such views: “Beliefs like these might seem fringe, but they undermine scientific literacy, especially among youth.”
Leading international scientists such as astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson and geologist David Montgomery have also long debunked flat Earth theories, pointing to overwhelming evidence from physics, space travel, and satellite imaging. Montgomery, in his book The Rocks Don’t Lie, promotes the compatibility of faith and science, cautioning against literalist readings that clash with observable facts.
Religious Pushback: Faith and Reason Must Coexist Makandiwa’s statement also drew rebukes from local religious leaders. Reverend George Chikwanje of the Presbyterian Church called the remarks “irresponsible” and warned that such statements damage the credibility of religious institutions.
“Faith must walk with reason. When religious leaders deny basic science, they do more than confuse people—they divide the faithful,” Chikwanje told Southerton Business Times.
Other theologians emphasized that verses referencing “the four corners of the Earth” are widely understood as poetic language, not literal cartographic truths. Mainstream Christian and Islamic scholarship interprets such passages metaphorically, consistent with historical understanding of early cosmology.
From the Pulpit to the Classroom: What’s at StakeEducators and scientists stress that the controversy has real-world consequences. “Modern systems like GPS, aviation, telecommunications—all rely on the Earth’s curvature,” said Dr. Adair. “To deny that is to deny the foundation of modern technology.”
She and other academics have urged Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Education to double down on scientific reasoning and critical thinking in schools, to safeguard young minds against viral pseudoscience.
Globally, flat Earth theories have resurfaced in recent years, often driven by social media, growing distrust of institutions, and charismatic figures who blur spiritual messages with misinformation.
The Line Between Faith and Fundamentalism Makandiwa’s claim highlights the increasingly blurred line between freedom of belief and the public responsibility held by high-profile religious figures. While many faith leaders embrace the idea that scripture and science can coexist, fundamentalist interpretations can fuel division and hinder progress.
Observers say the moment calls for deeper dialogue—not just about Earth’s shape, but about how society defines truth in an age where spiritual influence and digital reach converge.
Conclusion The scientific consensus remains unshaken: the Earth is round. Centuries of inquiry, exploration, and repeatable results confirm it. As debate continues, Zimbabwe now finds itself at a critical juncture—balancing freedom of worship with the need to protect truth and scientific integrity in public life.