Are we to repent for our ancestors past sins?

[Aquila]

Originally Posted by derAlte

In my research on my own family history, I discovered one ancestral line who were 18th century residents of Bedford Country, Virginia. As I read through a will, I discovered that one of my relatives owned slaves. I really did not want to learn that. I can't imagine and utterly abhor the thought of owning and mistreating another human being just because his ancestors came from Africa.

I can't help the fact my relatives owned slaves. I hate it but there's nothing I can do to change it.

But during my short sojourn in the time frame where the Lord has placed me, I can determine that I will treat people of African ancestry with all the courtesy I extend to all other human beings, and not judge them (as the old but true cliche says) by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.

With the advent of DNA testing, it becomes increasingly possible for the descendants of the slaves owned by my 18th century forebears to be identified. Since 30% of African-American men carry European Y-DNA chromosome signatures, many white descendants of slave owners are finding out they have black relatives. It's a horrible fact, but many white slave owners raped their female slaves and impregnated them.

My wife and I have had our DNA tested and both of us have discovered a handful of African-American relatives on our match list. We cheerfully acknowledge them as our cousins. If their ancestors were conceived by rape, then I am deeply ashamed. No one has suggested we make reparations. I'm not sure what I'd answer if they did.

You're attitude, spirit, and approach shows that you've already, instinctively, repented of any sin of your ancestors. And as far as righting wrongs, teaching your children the ideals you've expressed here has stopped any possible remainder of dehumanizing racism cold. And, your ancestor's sin is so far removed, there's no personal action on your part necessary. I mean, if you feel it necessary, you could advocate for monitory causes, adopt a minority child, volunteer for humanitarian work in Africa, etc. But, I don't think such should be required or expected of you if you're at peace.

This isn't about some new prayer or spiritual practice or mandated reparation. It's just an additional perspective to consider in one's contemplations that take into consideration the sins and injustices of our ancestors, with the intentions of not perpetuating them, or continuing ideas and attitudes they held.

It's not about repenting for the dead, or you being responsible for their individual actions. It's just about being better people than they were and not continuing in the same sins, or being apethetic towards those who do.