Language as a Tool of Faith: The Sociolinguistic Impact of Religious Discourse in Multicultural Communities

Abstract

This study examines the sociolinguistic role of religious language in multicultural settings, focusing on how religious discourse shapes identity, fosters social cohesion, and sometimes, provokes divisions. By analyzing religious language’s impact on group dynamics within culturally diverse communities, the paper explores how it facilitates mutual understanding or exacerbates divisions, depending on its context and delivery. Drawing on sociolinguistic theories and case studies, this research investigates the influence of religious discourse on inclusion, belonging, and social identity. The findings suggest that while religious language has the potential to promote empathy and solidarity across diverse groups, it may also contribute to social tensions, particularly when differing beliefs and practices intersect. The study’s insights offer a nuanced understanding of religious language's role in multicultural societies, supporting initiatives for social cohesion and cultural inclusivity.