Analysis of causes and factors of the spread of takfirism in Kazakhstan

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to analyse the emergence of takfirism, its spread and its evolution in contemporary Kazakh society. The methodological foundation of the study was provided by general theoretical methods of scientific cognition, and various methods of collecting and systematising information. Among the general scientific methods are the method of theoretical analysis; the historical method of comparing individual religious movements of different periods in Kazakhstan, and the specific scientific and philosophical-religious methods of research. The results have suggested that unfounded takfirism poses a threat to the sustainability of diverse communities in Kazakhstan. The religious, ideological and theological preconditions for takfirism in Kazakhstan were analysed. Noted the diversity of approaches by Muslim scholars to understanding and interpreting the ayats of the Qur'an. Presented aspects of distortion in interpreting the essence of Shariah texts. Noted that the influence of political and social factors is significant. Focuses on some of the sociopsychological aspects of the development of radical attitudes among young people. The qualities inherent in young people that enable them to resist external non-ideological attacks are identified. Illiteracy, poor quality of education and the low culture of some people in Muslim countries are among the key elements. It was noted that the main factor in takfirism in Kazakhstan is the influence of the Salafi-Wahhabi movement. The practical significance of the study is that its content is of interest in developing the worldview of contemporary young people in the Republic of Kazakhstan. The results can be used as a teaching and practical material for students and researchers on contemporary history and religion in Kazakhstan.

Keywords

• aggressive mind-set
• salafist idea
• ideology
• literalism
• extremist activities