MOSCOW: The history of Islam in Russia dates back centuries, with the first contact between Islam and Russia occurring in the Middle Ages. Islam was introduced to Russia by Muslim traders and ambassadors, and in the year 18 AH, Islam entered the land of the Eastern Caucasus (Azerbaijan). By the year 38 AH, Islam had permeated the Caucasus, finding fertile ground for rapid expansion. Over time, Islamic countries in Russia developed and experienced growth in numbers, organisation, and religious practices. Russia also became an observer member of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.
Today, Islam is the second-largest religion in Russia, with approximately 26 million followers, or 15% of the total population. Estimates suggest that Muslims will make up one-third of Russia’s population by 2050.
The majority of Muslims in Russia live in the North Caucasus republics, the republics of Tatarstan and Bashkortostan, and the capital city of Moscow. The Muslim community enjoys freedom to practice their religious rit
uals and participate in community activities organised during the holy month.
Muslims in Russia practice their rituals freely, and there are designated places for breaking the fast in public areas. Joint events are organised between Muslims and non-Muslims to promote mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence between different cultures.
Russia is home to many historical and modern mosques that reflect the cultural and religious diversity of Muslims in the country. Moscow, which was once a small town in the 12th century, has become one of the most important European cities with a historical depth of over 850 years. It is also one of the most crowded cities in the world, with a Muslim population of up to 2.5 million people out of a total of 10.5 million inhabitants. Islam has become an integral part of Russia, with one Muslim out of every four people seen on the street. There are six large mosques in Moscow, as well as 20 smaller mosques scattered throughout the city.
The month of Ramadan in Russia is cha
racterised by many unique customs and traditions. Russian cities are embellished with beautiful Ramadan decorations and special events are organised.
The Russian Muftiate also organises activities specifically for Ramadan, including preparing a list of needy people such as the elderly, orphans, and widows to whom they provide financial and food assistance.
The “Ramadan Tent in Moscow” is one of the most important aspects of the holy month. It has been held annually since 2006 on the grounds of the Poklonnaya Gora Memorial Mosque in central Moscow and welcomes over 45,000 visitors during the blessed month of Ramadan. The tent opens its doors to provide free Iftar meals, in addition to many cultural events dedicated to interfaith dialogue and an opportunity for communication and acquaintance in an atmosphere of tolerance and forgiveness.
Source: Emirates News Agency
Al Sakhir: His Majesty King Abdullah II on Thursday met with Bahrain King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa at Al Sakhir Palace in Manama.
The two leaders discussed the deep-rooted bilateral relations between the two countries and peoples, stressing keenness on expanding cooperation in various fields.
The meeting also covered regional developments, especially the dangerous developments in Gaza, with the two sides stressing the need the need for an immediate and lasting ceasefire in Gaza, the protection of civilians, and the uninterrupted delivery of aid to the Strip.
The two leaders reiterated the need to step up efforts to end the Palestinian-Israeli conflict on the basis of the two-state solution, guaranteeing stability and security for all, whereby Palestinians can gain their just and legitimate rights.
Prime Minister Bisher Khasawneh, Director of the Office of His Majesty Jafar Hassan, and Jordan’s Ambassador to Bahrain Rami Wreikat attended the meeting.
Sheikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Bahraini monar
ch’s personal representative, Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Bahraini monarch’s representative for humanitarian work and youth affairs, and Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Supreme Council for Youth and Sport first deputy chairman, General Sports Authority chairman and Bahrain Olympic Committee president, as well as a number of senior Bahraini officials also attended the meeting.
Earlier on Thursday, His Majesty was received at Sakhir Air Base by King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and a number of senior officials, who were also there to bid the King farewell.
Source: Jordan News Agency