A Comparative Analysis of Pragmatic Strategies in Nigerian Religious Discourse: A Focus on Sermon Structures
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Background of the Study
Religious discourse in Nigeria is a powerful medium for shaping beliefs and community values, with sermons playing a central role in both church and mosque settings. This study conducts a comparative analysis of pragmatic strategies employed in Nigerian religious discourse by examining sermon structures across different faith traditions. Pragmatic markers—such as the use of repetition, rhetorical questions, and code-switching—are essential for engaging congregations and conveying spiritual messages effectively (Akinola, 2023). Sermons often integrate culturally specific idioms and traditional proverbs, creating a unique linguistic blend that resonates with diverse audiences. This research investigates how pragmatic strategies differ between religious contexts, focusing on the structure, tone, and language choice in sermons. By analyzing recorded sermons and their transcripts, the study seeks to understand how pragmatic elements contribute to the persuasive power of religious messages and foster communal identity. The findings are expected to reveal insights into the dynamic interplay between language, culture, and spirituality in Nigerian religious settings (Akinola, 2023; Bello, 2024).
Statement of the Problem
Although sermons are a critical aspect of Nigerian religious practice, there is limited research on the pragmatic strategies that underpin effective religious discourse. Existing studies have primarily focused on thematic content and delivery style, overlooking the detailed pragmatic markers that facilitate audience engagement and message clarity. This gap restricts our understanding of how religious leaders use language to influence beliefs and behaviors. Without systematic analysis, key strategies that contribute to the success of sermons may remain undocumented, hampering efforts to improve religious communication. This study aims to address this gap by comparing pragmatic strategies in sermons from different religious traditions (Akinola, 2023; Bello, 2024).
Objectives of the Study
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To identify pragmatic markers in Nigerian sermons.
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To compare pragmatic strategies across religious contexts.
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To assess the impact of these strategies on audience engagement.
Research Questions
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What pragmatic strategies are most effective in Nigerian sermons?
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How do these strategies vary between different religious contexts?
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What role do they play in shaping audience perceptions?
Significance of the Study
This study provides insights into the pragmatic dimensions of religious discourse, offering valuable information for religious leaders, communication experts, and scholars. The findings will enhance our understanding of effective sermon delivery and contribute to improved communication in religious settings (Akinola, 2023).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is limited to analyzing pragmatic strategies in Nigerian religious sermons and does not extend to other forms of religious communication.
Definitions of Terms
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Pragmatic Strategies: Techniques used to manage communication effectively.
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Sermon Structures: The organizational patterns of religious messages.
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Religious Discourse: Spoken or written communication used in religious contexts.
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