Background of the Study
Religious discourses in Nigeria play a pivotal role in shaping moral values, community identity, and social cohesion. This study assesses the pragmatic markers used in Nigerian religious sermons, offering a comparative analysis of mosque and church sermons. Pragmatic markers—such as intonation, pauses, and specific speech acts—help organize discourse and convey nuanced meaning (Akinola, 2023). In Islamic sermons, speakers often employ culturally specific rhetorical devices and traditional proverbs, while Christian sermons may emphasize Biblical references and motivational language. Both contexts rely on pragmatic cues to enhance the persuasive power of their messages and foster emotional engagement among congregants. By analyzing recorded sermons from both mosques and churches, this study will identify the frequency, function, and effectiveness of various pragmatic markers. The research aims to reveal how these markers shape audience perception, contribute to sermon clarity, and ultimately reinforce community bonds (Bello, 2024). Findings are expected to inform religious communication practices and support the development of effective sermon delivery strategies.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the importance of pragmatic markers in religious discourses, there is limited comparative research on their use in Nigerian mosque and church sermons. Existing studies tend to focus on content and thematic elements, often overlooking the pragmatic nuances that enhance the delivery and reception of sermons. This lack of systematic analysis hinders our understanding of how pragmatic markers affect audience engagement, comprehension, and emotional impact in religious settings. Without clear insights into these linguistic features, religious leaders may not fully leverage communication strategies that optimize sermon effectiveness. This study aims to address these gaps by examining and comparing pragmatic markers in both contexts (Akinola, 2023; Bello, 2024).
Objectives of the Study
To identify pragmatic markers in Nigerian mosque and church sermons.
To compare the usage and effects of these markers across the two religious contexts.
To recommend strategies for enhancing effective religious communication.
Research Questions
What pragmatic markers are commonly used in Nigerian religious sermons?
How do their usage and effects differ between mosque and church sermons?
What improvements can be made to enhance the delivery of religious messages?
Significance of the Study
This study contributes to the understanding of religious communication by highlighting the role of pragmatic markers in Nigerian sermons. The findings will benefit religious leaders, communication scholars, and cultural practitioners by providing insights into effective language strategies for engaging diverse congregations. Enhanced understanding of these pragmatic features can improve sermon delivery and foster stronger community connections (Akinola, 2023).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is limited to analyzing pragmatic markers in Nigerian religious discourses, specifically comparing mosque and church sermons, and does not extend to other religious contexts.
Definitions of Terms
Pragmatic Markers: Linguistic features that organize discourse and convey speaker intent.
Religious Discourses: Formal spoken communications in religious settings.
Sermons: Preachings delivered by religious leaders in a worship context.
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