Abstract

This study conducts a critical discourse analysis of selected sermons from the Nasrul-lahi-li Fathi Society of Nigeria (NASFAT) Assalat group to explore the interplay between language, ideology and identity in Islamic discourse. By examining the linguistic strategies employed in the sermons, the paper highlights how NASFAT leaders utilise thematic resources and rhetorical devices to propagate their ideologies and influence the attitudes of their followers. The findings reveal that the language used in the sermons reflects the underlying religious beliefs of the Assalat group. It also reinforces community cohesion and moral values among members of the group. The analysis identifies key discursive strategies, such as code-switching, metaphor, and personification, which contributes to the construction of socially situated identities of NASFAT as well as the preachers and audiences of the group. The study concludes that language is significant in shaping the thoughts of the faithful and in perpetuating religious narratives and ideologies in contemporary society.