The International Institute of Islamic Thought and the Institute оf Knowledge Integration continue the series of lectures for the CIS countries, and on April 23, George Sanikidze presented his topic «Islam as a religion of minority — the case of Georgia».
In his lecture, Professor Sanikidze provided detailed overview of the history of Islam in Georgia, perception of Islam and Muslims by Georgian society, influence of Islam on the national identity of three Muslim groups in Georgia, namely, Adjarians (indigenous Georgians), Azerbaijanis, and Kists (descendants of Chechens and Ingush who immigrated to Georgia in the 19th century). Professor Sanikidze also spoke on the peculiarities of the religious rituals of Muslim groups in Georgia, their relations among themselves and with other religious groups, mainly Orthodox Christians, the degree of their integration into Georgian society, and their international contacts. The lecturer separately outlined the main problems concerning Muslim minorities in Georgia, the country with predominantly Orthodox Christian population.
In the final part of presentation, there followed discussion of questions related to the topic. There was particular interest of the audience in the historical traditions of Islamic education in Georgia, activities of Islamic organizations in Georgia, authorities' perception of Islamic minorities at the current stage, and interfaith relations in the country. Other questions were regarding mosques in Georgia, their number, state regulation of its building, etc.
More than 30 participants from different countries, such as Ukraine, Georgia, Russia, Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, attended this online-event.
The next lecture is scheduled for May 5, it will be given by Professor Alexander Knysh and focused on the topic «How did the scholars of Oriental Studies studied (and continue studying) Islam».
