Language, ethnicity and religion: a complex and persistent linkage

  1. WILLIAM SAFRAN

Article first published online: 21 JAN 2008

DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-8129.2008.00323.x

Issue

Nations and Nationalism

Nations and Nationalism

Volume 14, Issue 1, pages 171–190, January 2008

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How to Cite

SAFRAN, W. (2008), Language, ethnicity and religion: a complex and persistent linkage. Nations and Nationalism, 14: 171–190. doi: 10.1111/j.1469-8129.2008.00323.x

Author Information

  1. University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA

Publication History

  1. Issue published online: 21 JAN 2008
  2. Article first published online: 21 JAN 2008

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Keywords:

  • clergy;
  • diaspora;
  • liturgy;
  • nation-building;
  • secularism;
  • vernacular

ABSTRACT. Among the markers of ethnonational identity, language and religion have figured with equal prominence. In many cases, religion has been the bedrock of nation-building; and even today, it is difficult to separate a number of national identities from their religious matrices. Religious identity is based on, and perpetuated in, narratives expressed in a specific language. Language and religion are related; in our secular age, however, that relationship is no longer consistent. The two may feed upon one another; language may substitute for religion; or religion may trump language. This article explores the varying relationships between language and religion.

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