Becoming a Shia in Russia
Reasons for Conversion to Shi‘ism in Russia
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 7147007 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Akif Tahiiev (0000-0003-0052-9919, corresponding author) |
| Year | 2025 |
| Volume | 34 |
| Issue | 2 |
| Pages | 92-117 |
| Publication date | 2025-09-01 |
| Peer Reviewed | Yes |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Anthropological Journal of European Cultures (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 1755-2923 • E-ISSN: 1755-2931 |
| Publisher | Berghahn Books (PUBLISHER • GB) |
| DOI | 10.3167/ajec.2025.340207 |
| OpenAlex | W7124959096 |
| Language | EN |
| Citations received | 1 |
The article examines the underexplored phenomenon of conversion to Shia Islam in Russia, where Shias form a small minority within the Muslim population. Drawing on literature review, ethnography, and interviews with prominent converts, it identifies intellectual inquiry and spiritual quest as primary motives, alongside occasional political or social justice orientations. Conversion trajectories include transitions from Christianity, atheism, or Sunni Islam, as well as renewed observance among ethnically Shia individuals. Cases reveal how theological coherence, rational appeal, and personal networks drive conversions despite limited Shia resources in Russian. The research highlights patterns comparable to other contexts, yet shaped by Russia's Soviet legacy, ethnic diversity, and geopolitical perceptions. Findings underscore the need for broader ethnographic and quantitative studies to capture less visible convert experiences
Ethnic group · Ethnically diverse · Ethnography · Geopolitics · Islam · Phenomenon · Politics · Islamic Studies and History · Religion and Society Interactions · Soviet and Russian History
| Unique citing works | 1 |
|---|---|
| Citations per year | 1 |
| Citation span | 2026 - 2026 (1) |
| Citation velocity | current |
| Highly cited | No |
| Citation types | Neutral: 1 |