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Gibson Mhaka
THE quest for divine intervention has seemingly become a lucrative business where a curious economic phenomenon has emerged in which spiritual consultations often command a higher price tag than medical check-ups, investigations by B-Metro have established.
Many Zimbabweans and many across the continent are turning to religious figures as they seek healing, prophecy, and deliverance. This trend has seen prophets and self-styled spiritual leaders charging exorbitant fees for private consultations or one-on-one encounters, sparking debate about the commercialisation of faith and Christianity.
For example, investigations by B-Metro revealed that some prophets and self-styled spiritual leaders charge between US$100 and US$300 for a one-on-one session or consultation. Comparatively, medical doctors charge between US$20 and US$80, depending on whether one is a general practitioner or specialist. This is significantly lower than the exorbitant fees charged by many prophets. Even some lawyers charge less than prophets for consultations, sources said.
Furthermore, unlike spiritual consultations, medical consultations offer tangible benefits such as diagnoses, prescriptions and treatment plans based on scientific evidence. While faith can be a powerful tool, it should not replace professional medical care when dealing with health issues, a Bulawayo resident argued.
Some prophets have aggressively marketed their services, even advertising on social media platforms about how to book international private one-on-one sessions. Investigations also revealed that to receive one-on-one phone counselling with some prophets and self-styled spiritual leaders, individuals are required to complete a form with “necessary” additional information.
Upon submission of the completed form and payment, a team member contacts the client to schedule a consultation and provide instructions. However, after posing as a client and submitting the required information, a team member from one of the prophets in the country contacted B- Metro with the scheduled time slot and instructions.
“Please be advised that one-on-one consultations are scheduled based on the prophet’s availability. Due to high demand, there may be a wait time for appointments. The cost for a one-on-one consultation is US$300. To expedite the process, you may choose to book accommodation at one of our church-run guest houses for US$100 per night.
This option often allows for quicker appointment scheduling,” the instruction reads in part. Upon making inquiries from other prominent prophets, it was revealed that they also operate guest houses. This concept was pioneered by the late multi-millionaire leader of Nigeria’s Synagogue Church of All Nations, Prophet TB Joshua.
“It’s outrageous that some so-called prophets are exploiting people’s desperation by charging exorbitant fees for spiritual consultations. It’s nothing short of a scam. People are facing hardships and these individuals are profiting from their vulnerability. It’s a complete disregard for the true meaning of spirituality.
These individuals should be held accountable for their actions. Genuine faith and spiritual guidance should be accessible to all, regardless of financial status,” fumed Freddy Moyo from Bulawayo’s Luveve suburb.
It has also emerged that individuals facing criminal charges and seeking assistance to evade conviction are also targets of prophets and self-styled spiritual leaders. However, the religious figures charge exorbitant fees for their services, often surpassing the costs of even legal representation. Entry-level lawyers typically charge between US$50 and US$100 for their initial consultations.
However, in defence of prophets and self-styled spiritual leaders, Prophet Mduduzi Dube, popularly known as Black Elisha, who sparked a sensation in Bulawayo with his recent unveiling of a “spiritual mat” which he said possesses healing powers to combat criminals and ward off evil spells in businesses and relationships, argued that the high cost of consultations was justified by the complex nature of spiritual work and the significant resources invested in acquiring spiritual knowledge and power.
Black Elisha charges between US$100 and US$150 for a one-on-one consultation or a general audience. He also offers a “spiritual mat” as a problem solver, which comes at an additional cost.
He claimed that many people underestimate the challenges faced by spiritual leaders in maintaining their spiritual gifts and providing effective healing and deliverance services.
“Many people underestimate the challenges faced by spiritual leaders in maintaining their spiritual gifts and providing effective healing and deliverance services. It takes significant resources, spiritual discipline and sacrifice to operate at this level.
The high consultation fees reflect the value of the services offered and the expertise involved. Another issue is that some problems people face require spiritual not medical intervention. This is why many turn to prophets and spiritual leaders for help,” said Black Elisha.
He added: “Some people are comfortable with their current circumstances and struggle to adapt to positive change. I believe that my consultations can be transformative, leading to immediate improvements in people’s lives.
However, I also emphasise the importance of spiritual warfare. Regular prayer and connection with a spiritual leader are essential for overcoming obstacles and accessing divine blessings.”
A visit to his house revealed hordes of people queuing for one-on-one sessions, a clear indication that many people place their faith in spiritual leaders over medical doctors.
Asked about the exorbitant fees charged by some prophets and self-styled spiritual leaders compared to medical doctors, a medical doctor who requested anonymity for professional reasons expressed concern. The doctor said while individuals have the freedom to choose what they believe in; it was crucial to prioritise evidence-based healthcare.
“Some ailments require immediate medical attention. Delaying treatment to seek spiritual healing can have severe consequences. While faith can be a powerful tool, it should not replace professional medical care,” the doctor warned.
Meanwhile, Kingdom Prosperity Ministries (KPM) leader, Apostle Rodney Chipoyera from Harare has been on record criticising prophets who charge for deliverance and healing, labelling the practice as robbery against unsuspecting Christians.
derick.khumalo