Use of the Term JIHAD in Russian-Language Media

Abstract

The article presents examples of the use of the religious term jihad in Russian-language media. The author deliberately cites only the most significant examples to illustrate the derivational potential of the lexeme jihad in Russian. Particular attention is paid to the accentuation of the interpretation of this term in scientific and media discourse. The interpretations of the lexeme jihad presented show that the Russian-language media space is dominated by established connotations associated with war, violence, and aggression. The semantics of the word jihad imply action, which is why the term is used in texts as an independent definition of action; when combined with a verb, this factor is reinforced. Russian-language lexicographic sources confirm this point of view, thus forming a single acceptable norm for interpreting the lexeme jihad in dictionary entries. A diametrically opposite interpretation of jihad is found in Islamic religious sources aimed at the Muslim population and anyone interested in Islamic culture. In order to identify acceptable lexical variants of the word jihad and establish possible boundaries of its use, the author of the article classifies examples in terms of thematic affiliation. As the analysis showed, Islamic vocabulary is used across media formats regardless of content genre. The only natural barrier to the free use of Islamic vocabulary in the media is regions with a predominantly Muslim population. In these territories, Islamic terminology is interpreted and used in the media in accordance with Islamic canonical norms.