Aims ​

Our research group is dedicated to exploring the intricate relationship between language and religion, focusing on how religious beliefs and practices shape linguistic expressions in Arabic and other world languages. We aim to uncover the profound impact that religion has on language, particularly through the pragmaticization of religious formulas, the distinctive discourse features they exhibit, and their cultural manifestations. By analyzing naturally occurring corpus data, we employ various theories of text analysis and discourse analysis to delve into these complex phenomena.

Expressions of Language Impacted by Religion

Religious beliefs and practices deeply influence linguistic expressions. Our research investigates how religious contexts shape language use, producing unique expressions that convey specific religious and cultural meanings. For instance, religious phrases and idioms often permeate everyday speech, reflecting the pervasive influence of religion in the linguistic landscape. By examining corpus data, we identify how religious contexts mold language, influencing vocabulary, syntax, and semantics.

Pragmaticization of Religious Formulas

Religious formulas, such as blessings, prayers, and invocations, undergo a process of pragmaticization, whereby they acquire pragmatic meanings beyond their literal interpretations. Our group focuses on how these formulas are adapted and used in various communicative contexts to achieve specific pragmatic goals. For example, phrases invoking divine intervention or expressing gratitude to a higher power are often employed to convey sincerity, solidarity, or politeness in everyday interactions. Through rigorous analysis, we uncover the mechanisms behind this pragmatic transformation.

Discourse Features of Religious Formulas

Religious formulas exhibit distinctive discourse features that set them apart from secular language. These features include heightened formality, ritualistic repetition, and a specific structure that reinforces their religious significance. Our research delves into the discourse patterns of religious formulas, analyzing their syntactic and rhetorical structures to understand how they function within religious and everyday contexts. We explore how these features contribute to the communicative power of religious language.

Cultural Manifestations of Religious Formulas

Religious language is deeply embedded in cultural practices and traditions. Our group examines the cultural manifestations of religious formulas, investigating how they reflect and reinforce cultural norms and values. By analyzing corpus data from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds, we uncover the ways in which religious expressions are intertwined with cultural identity. For instance, we study how religious greetings, blessings, and exclamations vary across cultures, revealing the intricate relationship between religion, language, and culture.

Variable Use of Religious Markers

One of our key research areas is the variable use of religious markers, particularly in terms of gender differences. Our studies have shown that certain religious markers are employed to express pragmatic meanings by both sexes, while others are predominantly used by one sex. This variability highlights the dynamic nature of religious language and its adaptability to different social contexts. By analyzing corpus data, we identify patterns of use and explore the social and pragmatic factors influencing these variations.

Special Pragmatic and Communicative Meanings

Religious expressions related to figures such as the prophet, god, and satan carry special pragmatic and communicative meanings. Our research investigates how these expressions are used to convey nuanced meanings in various contexts. For instance, invoking the name of the prophet may serve to emphasize sincerity or moral authority, while references to satan may be employed to denote evil or wrongdoing. We analyze how these expressions function pragmatically, shedding light on their communicative power.

Methodology

Our research methodology involves the use of naturally occurring corpora, which provide authentic language data for analysis. By employing various theories of text and discourse analysis, we dissect the linguistic and pragmatic features of religious language. Our approach is interdisciplinary, drawing on insights from linguistics, religious studies, and cultural anthropology to provide a comprehensive understanding of the interface between language and religion.

Research Goals

Our primary goal is to investigate the intricate relationship between language and religion, exploring how they impact each other. We aim to provide a nuanced understanding of how religious beliefs and practices shape linguistic expressions and how language, in turn, influences religious thought and practice. By uncovering these dynamics, we contribute to broader discussions on the role of language in society and culture.

Conclusion

Our research group is at the forefront of exploring the interface between language and religion. By analyzing naturally occurring corpus data and employing diverse theoretical frameworks, we uncover the profound ways in which religion shapes language use. Our findings reveal the pragmaticization of religious formulas, distinctive discourse features, cultural manifestations, and variable use of religious markers. Through this research, we aim to illuminate the complex interplay between language and religion, contributing to a deeper understanding of their mutual influence.​