Islam in Uzbekistan
Etymology: The term “Islam in Uzbekistan” refers to the practice, cultural influence, and historical context of Islam within the territorial bounds of modern-day Uzbekistan. In Arabic, it can be transliterated as الإسلام في أوزبكستان (Al-Islām fī Āwzbākistān), and in Turkish, as Özbekistan’da İslam.
Historical Overview
Islam was introduced to Uzbekistan in the 7th century, carried by trade caravans and itinerant preachers. By the time of the Abbasid Caliphate, the region was thoroughly integrated into the Islamic cultural and religious world. Over centuries, local dynasties and scholars embraced and furthered Islamic teachings and jurisprudence.
Uzbekistan’s capital, Tashkent (تاشكینت), became a significant political and cultural center, especially during the tsarist and later Soviet periods. Despite the Communist regime’s atheistic stance and anti-religious policies, many Uzbeks clandestinely maintained their Islamic faith, observing rituals and secretly visiting the tombs of saints.
Demographics and Ethnic Composition
Today, approximately 88% of Uzbekistan’s population identifies as Sunni Muslims, predominantly following the Hanafi school of thought. The ethnic breakdown of the country is diverse:
- Uzbek: 80%
- Russian: 5.5%
- Tajik: 5%
- Kazakh: 3%
- Karakalpak: 2.5%
- Tatar: 1%
- Other: 2.5%
Sufism and Spiritual Life
Active Sufi orders such as the Naqshbandi, Qadiri, Kubrawi, and Qalandari have a profound influence on spiritual and social life. These orders played pivotal roles in the spiritual resilience of Islam during oppressive eras.
Post-independence Context
Since gaining independence in 1991, Uzbekistan has faced numerous social and economic challenges as well as government-imposed religious restrictions. The unresolved issues have unfortunately given rise to radical elements, most notably the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan. In response, the government has conducted mass arrests and employed stringent measures against Muslims, particularly those not affiliated with state-approved religious organizations.
Books for Further Study
- Islamic Central Asia: An Anthology of Historical Sources by Scott C. Levi and Ron Sela
- The Sharīʿa and Islamic Criminal Justice in Time of War and Peace by M. Cherif Bassiouni
- Religious Dimensions of Conflicts and Cooperation in the Central Asian States by Dragana Mitrović and Vladimir Trajković
- Inside Central Asia: A Political and Cultural History of Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkey, and Iran by Dilip Hiro
Takeaways and Conclusion
Islam in Uzbekistan is characterized by its historical depth, cultural diversity, and enduring nature. From the early days of Islamic introduction to the modern challenges faced post-independence, the nation’s Muslim identity remains a pivotal facet. Despite modern adversities, Islam’s social, cultural, and religious undertones continue to influence Uzbek society dynamically.
The complexities surrounding Islam’s role in modern Uzbekistan reflect broader issues of religious freedom, cultural heritage, and political unity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding Islam in Uzbekistan requires an appreciation of its storied past, diverse ethnicity, and the ongoing interplay between government policies and religious practises. Continued study in this area can help further illuminate how historical contexts shape the modern religious and political landscape in Central Asia.
