Islam in post-Soviet Russia

Book Description

In the vast landscape of post-Soviet Russia, a profound spiritual transformation has been quietly unfolding. This comprehensive exploration reveals how Islamic faith and practice have evolved within Russia's complex multiethnic society, offering readers deep insights into one of the world's most fascinating religious revivals.

Drawing from extensive fieldwork, this study takes readers into the heart of Tatarstan and Dagestan, regions where Muslim communities have maintained their spiritual traditions through decades of dramatic political change. The authors illuminate the intricate dance between Muslim and Orthodox Christian communities, tracing centuries of coexistence that continue to shape contemporary Russian society.

What emerges is a nuanced portrait of living faith in action. Readers discover how Islamic practice manifests differently across official and grassroots levels, from formal ceremonies to intimate family traditions. The transmission of spiritual wisdom between generations takes center stage, revealing how communities preserve their sacred heritage while adapting to modern realities.

The work examines diverse expressions of Islamic thought, including more radical interpretations, while exploring how gender roles are understood and practiced within these communities. Throughout, the influence of Russia's unique multicultural context becomes clear, demonstrating how local circumstances shape universal spiritual principles.

For those seeking to understand how faith communities navigate political transformation while maintaining their spiritual core, this study offers valuable perspectives on resilience, adaptation, and the enduring power of religious identity.