Pulpit, Mosque and Nation

Analyses the historical and sociological roles of Friday sermons in the nation-building process in modern Turkey

Presents a new field of research, which focuses the role of Islamic oratory in the nation building process in modern Turkey
Analyses various forms and contents (including a large number of translations from Turkish to English) of Friday prayer oratory
Highlights how state patronage conducted through a secular political order has controlled religion, but also how an overpowering state has been challenged by various religious groups and institutions
Synthesises three basic analytical dimensions of official Muslim oratory: the religious ritual; political and ideological discourses; and, governmental supervision through the official religious institution Diyanet

With an all-pervading sermon theme of social, national and political unity, Elisabeth zdalga explores how long-standing religious rituals are utilised and mobilised in the formation of modern political loyalties and national identities.

Since the formation of the Republic in 1923, Friday sermons (hutbe) have been an important platform that allows the state to engage and communicate with the Turkish people. Sermon topics vary from religious and ethical issues to matters concerning family, women, health, education, business and the environment. Even if politics, in the name of secularism, has been banned from mosques and sermons, questions of how to be a good citizen and honour the Turkish nation have been of utmost importance.