Sufism in Abkhazia: An Examination of Mystical Beliefs and Practices in a Post-Soviet Context
Keywords:
Abkhaz-Georgia Conflict, Sufi Missionairies, Naqshbandi Sufi Order, Shams Tabriz, Caucasian Imamate, Kabardino-BalkariaAbstract
This research paper explores the mystical beliefs and practices of Sufism in Abkhazia, a post-Soviet region in the Caucasus. The paper examines the historical and cultural context of Sufism in Abkhazia, including its interactions with other religious traditions and its role in shaping local identity and culture. Drawing on ethnographic research and analysis of textual sources, the paper provides an overview of the key beliefs and practices of Sufism in Abkhazia, including its emphasis on spiritual purification, meditation, and devotion to God. The paper also examines the role of Sufi orders and their leaders, known as sheikhs, in shaping the religious landscape of Abkhazia and maintaining spiritual authority and community cohesion. The paper then discusses the challenges and opportunities facing Sufism in Abkhazia in the post-Soviet era, including the impact of secularization, modernization, and globalization on traditional religious practices and beliefs. The paper argues that despite these challenges, Sufism continues to play an important role in shaping local identity and culture in Abkhazia, providing a source of spiritual and social support for its followers. Finally, the paper concludes by highlighting the potential avenues for future research on Sufism in Abkhazia, including the relationship between Sufism and politics, gender dynamics within Sufi communities, and the impact of Sufism on interfaith relations in the region. Overall, this research paper provides a comprehensive examination of the role of Sufism in Abkhazia, shedding light on the complexities of religious traditions and their intersections with broader cultural and social dynamics.
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