JoREL: Journal of Religion and Linguistics
Vol. 2 No. 2 (2025): JoREL: Journal of Religion and Linguistics

Language, morality, and modern Islam: A linguistic reframing of ethical challenges in Islamic thought

Nesher, Elinor (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
15 Sep 2025

Abstract

This study argues for an urgent reform in Islamic thought, positing that its capacity to address modern challenges is intrinsically linked to the evolution of its religious language. While Sharia is considered eternal, its application requires continuous dynamic interpretation (ijtihad), a process that is fundamentally discursive. This research employs a textual-historical and linguistic-pragmatic analysis to investigate how religious authority, ethical values, and moral norms are constructed, maintained, and contested through language. It examines the linguistic mechanisms such as speech acts, modal verbs, and evaluative language that underpin religious discourse and explores how semantic shifts and innovations respond to issues of globalization, science, and pluralism. The paper concludes by proposing an adaptive ethical-linguistic framework that harmonizes tradition with contemporary innovation, balancing individual moral responsibility with collective Islamic values.

Copyrights © 2025






Journal Info

Abbrev

jorel

Publisher

Subject

Religion Arts Humanities Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

JoREL: Journal of Religion and Linguistics is an open access international, peer reviewed journal publishing high quality, original research that advance civic understanding and dialogue on issues at the intersections of religion and linguistics in public life. Editorial team broadly define religion ...