Exhortation

An exhortation is a communication intended to urge or encourage someone to do something, often moral or virtuous. It's a strong plea, a passionate urging, or a formal address intended to influence behavior or action. The primary aim of an exhortation is to motivate and inspire a person or group toward a particular goal, usually involving a change in attitude, belief, or action. It often presents the potential benefits of the desired action while possibly highlighting the negative consequences of inaction. Exhortations are frequently found in religious sermons, political speeches, and persuasive writing, aiming to uplift, guide, or persuade the audience to adopt a specific course of conduct. They appeal to the listener's sense of reason, emotion, and sometimes, even fear, to achieve the intended outcome. The effectiveness of an exhortation depends on the speaker's credibility, the audience's receptiveness, and the clarity of the message.

Exhortation meaning with examples

• In his fiery sermon, the preacher's exhortation to forgive enemies resonated throughout the crowded church. He vividly described the spiritual rewards of compassion and the bitterness of holding grudges. His impassioned plea, reinforced with biblical verses, aimed to inspire the congregation to embrace forgiveness, urging them to reconcile with those who had wronged them. The preacher's voice, filled with conviction, was designed to move his audience, and to prompt a meaningful change within the congregation.
• The coach delivered a final exhortation before the championship game. He reminded his players of their grueling training and the sacrifices they'd made. He encouraged teamwork, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of victory. His words, a blend of inspiration and strategy, were meant to instill confidence and to galvanize his team. The coach's exhortation was intended not only to motivate, but also to provide focus and direction during the intense upcoming game.
• The public health official's address included an exhortation to the community. It encouraged everyone to get vaccinated. He cited scientific evidence and offered a clear explanation of the vaccine's benefits. This included details about protecting themselves and others from the virus. The official used facts to combat misinformation and stressed the collective responsibility of the community to combat the pandemic. The call to action sought to improve public health.
• The political candidate's speech culminated in an exhortation to the voters. He urged them to register and to vote in the upcoming election. His rhetoric emphasized the importance of civic duty and the power of the collective voice. The candidate portrayed the election as a pivotal moment that would shape the future. The objective was to boost voter turnout and to reinforce the significance of each individual's participation to ensure a successful outcome.
• In the final chapter of her book, the author included an exhortation to embrace one's authentic self. She recounted the transformative journeys of those who had overcome adversity. She urged readers to cast aside societal pressures and to live in accordance with their values and beliefs. The author hoped her exhortation, supported by the lived experiences of others, would inspire readers to pursue genuine happiness and live fulfilling lives.