Islam in Russia

Etymology and Translations

• Etymology: The term “Islam” in Russia relates to the historical and contemporary presence and practice of Islam within the geographical and political boundaries of the Russian Empire, Soviet Union, and the Russian Federation.
• Arabic: الإسلام في روسيا (Al-Islam fi Russiya)
• Turkish: Rusya’da İslam

Historical Context

Islam has had a presence in the territory of modern-day Russia since the Middle Ages. Despite frequently hostile relations with Russian rulers, Islam has persisted and grown among various ethnic groups. The Turkic Tatars, Bashkirs, and Kazakhs, along with Caucasian groups like the Chechens, Avars, and Kabardinians, form significant Muslim communities within Russia.

During the times of the Russian Empire, the Soviet Union, and the Russian Federation, Muslim communities experienced varying levels of religious freedom and suppression. However, Islam managed to survive and even expand, adapting to changing political landscapes.

Demographics

Muslims make up between eight to twelve percent of the Russian population, with significant representation from over twenty ethnic groups. The largest Muslim ethnic groups include:

1. Tatars
2. Bashkirs
3. Kazakhs
4. Chechens
5. Avars
6. Kabardinians

Socio-Political Context

Glasnost and the Fall of the USSR

The policies of glasnost (openness) and the subsequent dissolution of the Soviet Union facilitated a resurgence of Islamic organizations and activities. However, during the administrations of Mikhail Gorbachev and Boris Yeltsin, Muslims had minimal representation.

Constitutional Framework

The 1993 constitution of Russia states that it is a secular state, yet the 1997 Religion Law places Islam in a secondary tier with other minority religions, below Russian Orthodoxy. This has impacted the organizational and political dynamics of Islam in the country.

Islamic Organizations

Since 1989, several national Islamic political organizations have been established. These organizations generally work to defend and promote Muslim culture and rights within the secular framework of the Russian state, rather than seeking to establish an Islamic state.

Key Takeaways

• Islam in Russia has a history that spans over a millennium, influenced by various political regimes.
• Muslims constitute a significant minority, spread across numerous ethnic groups.
• Despite legal and social challenges, Islamic organizations play an active role in cultural and religious advocacy.

Conclusion

Islamic history and practice in Russia showcase the resilience and adaptability of the Muslim communities in the face of changing political and social environments. The continued efforts of Islamic organizations highlight the importance of cultural and religious advocacy within a secular state.

Suggested Books for Further Study

1. Islam in Russia: The Politics of Identity and Security by Shireen T. Hunter
2. Muslims of Central Asia: Expressions of Identity and Change by Jo-Ann Gross
3. The Many Faces of Islam: Perceptions of Islamic Tradition and The Modern Muslim World by Nonneman, Aarts & Cavatorta

By exploring these resources, one can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the intricate dynamics of Islam in Russia.