Cognitive Linguistics and Religious Language: An Introduction

by Peter Richardson, Charles M Mueller, Stephen Pihlaja

This book comprehensively introduces Cognitive Linguistics and applies its tools to religious language. Drawing on authentic samples from a range of faiths, text types, and modes of interactive discourse, the authors accessibly define concepts like embodied cognition, agency, metaphor analysis, and Dynamic Systems Theory; illustrate how they can be used in analyzing religious language; and offer thorough pedagogical material to aid learning and application. Advanced students and scholars of linguistics, discourse analysis, cognitive science, and religious and biblical studies will benefit from this practical guide to understanding and conducting research on religious discourse.

Genres: Religion, Linguistics

224 pages, ebook

Published February 15, 2021

Reviews

[Naava · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh. This was an engaging read. I would pause occasionally, my eyes lit up, my heartbeat slightly faster than usual, and I would blurt out something I’d realized. By the time I reached the Conclusion chapter, I’d realized a lot about the religion I was raised to (Evangelical Lutheranism). For instance, I realized why I never really… you know… “vibed” with the Christian faith. And that was an interesting realization!

All in all, an excellent, eye-opening read for anyone interested in analyzing applicable ways of communication (words, gestures, pauses et cetera) in sacred texts, sermons, prayer, conversations, well, everything religion-related.

Oh, also! Regarding prose-writing, during the reading of this, I think I unlocked a new way to show hesitation in dialogue rather than tell “character hesitated”. That’s cool, too!