The role of language in religious education

Language is that which we use to communicate to others our needs, ideas, desires, values, stories, opinions or beliefs, and as such language is open to interpretation. Language is dependent on its context, on the emphasis given to the particular words used, or even the body language which may accompany such words in translation. The meaning of such communication does not become clear without, again, the use of language to identify, explain and expound what is meant. Thus all language requires dialogue for clarification of meaning or purpose. Religious language is no exception.