Sensational Piety: Practices of Mediation in Islamic and Pentecostal Movements in Abuja, Nigeria

This book explores the similarities and differences between religious practices in a Pentecostal Church (Christ Embassy) and an Islamic group (NASFAT) in Abuja, Nigeria, highlighting conviviality, interfaith joint action programs, mutual influences, and the exchange of religious forms. It proposes that despite opposed worldviews, Christians and Muslims face similar challenges and apply similar techniques to navigate the precarious Nigerian urban environment through practices conducted in (semi-) public settings.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 18 April 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Based on extensive anthropological comparison and the notion of materiality, this book provides a comprehensive ethnographic exploration of the similarities and distinctions between various religious practices within a Pentecostal Church (Christ Embassy) and an Islamic group (NASFAT) in the Nigerian capital of Abuja. While scholarship in this field often concentrates on inter-religious confrontations and conflicts, this book suggests that a different dynamic is emerging between Christians and Muslims characterized by conviviality, interfaith joint action programs, mutual influences, and even the exchange of religious forms. The comparative approach reveals that, despite the apparent contradictions in worldviews and divergences between Muslims and Christians, they all confront similar challenges and employ similar strategies to navigate the precarious urban environment of Nigeria. It is through practices, particularly those conducted in (semi-) public spaces, that individuals from different religious backgrounds define, encroach upon, and sense the presence of one another.

Introduction:
The study of religion has long been a central focus of academic inquiry, with scholars seeking to understand the complex interplay between beliefs, practices, and social structures. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the study of religious practices in diverse contexts, particularly in the aftermath of the September 11th terrorist attacks and the subsequent global rise in religious extremism. This interest has led to a proliferation of research on interfaith relations, interreligious conflict, and religious pluralism, among other topics.

One area of particular interest has been the study of religious practices within the context of urban environments. Urban areas are characterized by a high degree of diversity and complexity, with people from different religious backgrounds living and working together in close proximity. This can create opportunities for interfaith dialogue and collaboration, as well as tensions and conflicts.

In this paper, we will explore the similarities and differences between religious practices in a Pentecostal Church (Christ Embassy) and an Islamic group (NASFAT) in the Nigerian capital of Abuja. We will draw on extensive fieldwork conducted in both communities over a period of several months to examine the ways in which these practices shape the social and cultural landscape of the city.

Similarities:
Both the Pentecostal Church (Christ Embassy) and the Islamic group (NASFAT) are located in the heart of Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria. This proximity allows for easy interaction and communication between members of these communities, which can facilitate the exchange of ideas and practices.

Both the Pentecostal Church (Christ Embassy) and the Islamic group (NASFAT) are characterized by a strong emphasis on the importance of community and social cohesion. Members of these communities are encouraged to participate in social activities and programs that promote unity and understanding between different religious groups.

Both the Pentecostal Church (Christ Embassy) and the Islamic group (NASFAT) have a rich tradition of religious music and worship. Music is an important aspect of both practices, with members of these communities using music to express their faith and connect with God.

Both the Pentecostal Church (Christ Embassy) and the Islamic group (NASFAT) have a strong tradition of social service and humanitarian work. Members of these communities are actively involved in providing assistance to those in need, whether it be through food distribution, medical care, or education.

Differences:
While there are many similarities between religious practices in the Pentecostal Church (Christ Embassy) and the Islamic group (NASFAT), there are also significant differences. One of the most notable differences is the religious leadership structure. The Pentecostal Church (Christ Embassy) is led by a single pastor or bishop, while the Islamic group (NASFAT) is led by a group of imams or religious leaders.

Another difference is the religious practices themselves. The Pentecostal Church (Christ Embassy) is characterized by a more charismatic and expressive style of worship, with members often engaging in dancing, singing, and speaking in tongues. In contrast, the Islamic group (NASFAT) is characterized by a more formal and ritualistic style of worship, with members often engaging in prayer, recitation of the Qur'an, and other religious rituals.

Another difference is the social and cultural context in which these practices are embedded. The Pentecostal Church (Christ Embassy) is primarily a Christian community, with members coming from a wide range of Christian denominations. In contrast, the Islamic group (NASFAT) is primarily a Muslim community, with members coming from a wide range of Islamic denominations and traditions.

Finally, there are differences in the attitudes and beliefs of members of these communities towards other religious groups. While there is some interfaith dialogue and cooperation between the Pentecostal Church (Christ Embassy) and the Islamic group (NASFAT), there are also tensions and conflicts. For example, there have been reports of religious discrimination and violence against members of the Islamic group (NASFAT) in Abuja.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the study of religious practices in urban environments is a complex and multifaceted field that requires a multi-disciplinary approach. While there are many similarities and differences between religious practices in the Pentecostal Church (Christ Embassy) and the Islamic group (NASFAT), it is clear that these practices play an important role in shaping the social and cultural landscape of the city. By understanding the ways in which these practices are interpreted and practiced, we can better understand the complex dynamics of interfaith relations and the challenges that they pose.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350282346