Rhetorical Analysis of Nasir Khusraw's Sermons and Its Role in Reinforcing the Ideological Foundations of Ismailism

Abstract

This study examines the role of rhetoric in Nasir Khusraw’s sermons and its impact on reinforcing and solidifying the ideological foundations of Ismailism. Nasir Khusraw, a prominent Ismaili thinker, masterfully employed rhetorical devices such as simile, metaphor, irony, and repetition to convey complex religious and philosophical concepts in an accessible and lasting manner to his audience. This research adopts a descriptive-analytical approach to analyze rhetorical structures within Nasir Khusraw’s sermons, demonstrating how these structures served as powerful tools for conveying Ismaili beliefs and embedding them deeply in the minds of followers. The findings reveal that Nasir Khusraw’s use of simile and metaphor helped create tangible and impactful images of abstract concepts such as Imamate, knowledge, and monotheism. Additionally, his use of irony allowed for indirect articulation of sensitive religious principles, guiding audiences towards a profound understanding of Ismaili beliefs. Furthermore, repetition in his sermons contributed to the retention and permanence of these beliefs in the minds of his audience, embedding them as lasting convictions. This study shows that rhetoric in Nasir Khusraw’s sermons functioned not merely as a literary element but played a vital role in promoting and cementing Ismaili principles. Finally, the study addresses existing limitations and proposes future research directions, particularly in comparative studies of Nasir Khusraw’s rhetoric with other Islamic thinkers.