Words As Shields and Swords: The Pervasive Influence of Pentecostal Language in Nigeria

Abstract

 Nigerian Pentecostalism has emerged as a significant socio-cultural force, exerting profound influence across various aspects of daily life, including linguistic practices. The movement has not only facilitated the emergence of new lexical expressions that reinforce religious dogmatism in a restrictive sense but has also contributed to their widespread deployment in social discourse in a more flexible and pervasive manner. Through innovative media, Pentecostal ideology, particularly in the form of warfare prayers and vernacular expressions has deeply permeated societal interactions, enabling individuals to appropriate these linguistic forms in popular culture to articulate diverse ideologies and identities. This study critically examines how ordinary Nigerians utilize Pentecostal expressions as rhetorical instruments of both offense and defense against perceived threats to their personal and communal progress, as well as tools for social engagement and interaction. Adopting an analytical approach, the study employs Norman Fairclough’s (1995) Critical Discourse Analysis as its theoretical framework and draws on empirical data from participant observations and unstructured interviews. The findings reveal that the integration of Pentecostal language into everyday discourse reflects broader sociocultural transformations and underscores the profound impact of religious movements on societal norms and values. Ultimately, the study highlights the intertwined roles of language and religion as foundational instruments in shaping human society.