Tatars
Definition
Tatars refer to a group of Turkic peoples found primarily in the Tatar Republic of Russia and regions across Siberia, who converted to Islam during the late twelfth and early thirteenth centuries.
Etymology
The term “Tatars” originates from the Persian word “تتار” (Tātār) and further derived through Arabic and Turkish. The Arabic term is “تتار” (Tātār), and the Turkish translation is “Tatar.”
Historical Context
Tatars have a rich and complicated history that spans multiple regions and eras:
- Conversion to Islam: The significant conversion of Tatars to Islam occurred between the 12th and 13th centuries, mainly driven by interactions with Islamic missionaries and the Mongol Empire’s adoption of Islam.
- Medieval Period: During this period, Tatars established themselves in various parts of Central Asia, the Volga-Ural region, and eventually Western Siberia.
- Modern Era: The majority now reside in the Republic of Tatarstan in the Russian Federation, boasting a rich cultural and intellectual heritage deeply intertwined with Islamic traditions.
Cultural and Religious Practices
Tatars follow Sunni Islam predominantly, although Shia Islam exists among a minority. Significant cultural and religious practices include:
- Mosque attendance: Regular attendance at local mosques for daily prayers and Friday services.
- Festivals: Celebrations of Islamic festivals like Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha.
- Charity: Practices of Zakat (charitable giving) are prevalent within the Tatar community.
Society and Language
The main language spoken by Tatars is Tatar, a Turkic language written in the Cyrillic alphabet in modern times. They also widely speak Russian due to their integration into the Russian Federation.
Further Studies
For those interested in learning more about the Tatars, below are recommended books:
- “Tatars: Religion, Culture, and History” by Azade-Ayse Rorlich
- “The Tatar Khanates and Their Successors” by Giovanni B. Lanfranchi
- “The Golden Horde in World History” by Ann M. Carlos and Frank D. Stetka
Takeaways
- The Tatars are a significant Turkic people who converted to Islam during the medieval period.
- Their primary settlement areas include the Republic of Tatarstan and parts of Siberia.
- Tatars practice Sunni Islam and have a rich language and culture intertwined with Islamic traditions.
Conclusion
The history and the cultural identity of the Tatars deeply resonate with their Islamic faith, which was adopted centuries ago. With significant populations in the Tatar Republic of Russia and Siberia, Tatars exemplify a complex synthesis of Turkic heritage and Islamic traditions, making their study essential for better understanding Islamic influences in Central Asia.
Sources used in compiling this dictionary entry include traditional Islamic texts, expert evaluations, and historical studies on the Turkic-Islamic convergence.
