An Examination of Pragmatic Variation in Nigerian Religious Discourses: A Case Study of Mosque Sermons
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Background of the Study
Religious discourses, particularly mosque sermons, form a pivotal component of Nigeria’s sociocultural landscape, where pragmatic variation plays a crucial role in effective communication. This study examines how variations in pragmatic markers—such as politeness strategies, speech acts, and contextual implicatures—manifest in Nigerian mosque sermons. The research explores how imams employ different pragmatic techniques to address diverse congregational needs, manage conflicts, and reinforce religious doctrine (Abdulrahman, 2023). Mosque sermons, delivered in a blend of classical Arabic, indigenous languages, and local dialects, exhibit significant pragmatic variation that reflects the religious, cultural, and social dynamics of the community (Fatima, 2024). The study highlights that such pragmatic strategies not only facilitate religious instruction but also serve to build communal identity and social cohesion. By analyzing recorded sermons and conducting field observations, the research aims to identify how pragmatic variation contributes to the effectiveness of religious messaging and the preservation of traditional practices in a rapidly modernizing society (Bello, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Despite the critical role of pragmatic variation in religious discourses, there is limited research on how such variations manifest in mosque sermons in Nigeria. The subtle differences in speech acts and contextual cues employed by religious leaders are often overlooked in favor of more overt content analysis (Sule, 2023). This gap hampers a thorough understanding of the communicative strategies that underpin effective religious instruction and community engagement. The absence of comprehensive studies on pragmatic variation restricts insights into how sermons address diverse congregational needs and manage socio-cultural complexities. Without a nuanced analysis, efforts to improve religious communication and preserve traditional practices may fall short, leaving a critical area of discourse underexplored (Ibrahim, 2024). This study intends to fill this gap by offering an in-depth examination of pragmatic variation in Nigerian mosque sermons, providing empirical data to inform both academic inquiry and practical application (Usman, 2025).
Objectives of the Study
- To investigate pragmatic markers used in Nigerian mosque sermons.
- To analyze the variation in pragmatic strategies among different imams.
- To assess the impact of pragmatic variation on congregational understanding and engagement.
Research Questions
- What are the predominant pragmatic markers used in mosque sermons?
- How do imams vary their pragmatic strategies to address diverse congregational needs?
- What impact does pragmatic variation have on the effectiveness of religious communication?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it elucidates the role of pragmatic variation in shaping religious discourse in Nigerian mosque sermons. The insights gained will enhance our understanding of effective communication in religious contexts and support training for religious leaders. Furthermore, the research contributes to discourse analysis by integrating pragmatic theory with real-world religious practices, offering valuable implications for both academic and community-based applications (Abdulrahman, 2023; Usman, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study is limited to the topic only, focusing on pragmatic variation in Nigerian mosque sermons.
Definitions of Terms
- Pragmatic Variation: Differences in language use based on social context and communicative intent.
- Mosque Sermons: Religious discourses delivered by imams during congregational prayers.
- Speech Acts: Communicative actions performed through language, such as requesting, promising, or commanding.
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