Forms of Religiosity of Muslim Students in Tatarstan (a Survey and Interview Findings)

Abstract

The article is devoted to the forms of religiosity of Muslim students of higher educational institutions of Tatarstan. The topic is relevant for the republic since in such a multi-confessional region as Tatarstan the religiosity of the population is important in achieving interfaith harmony and peace. The author adheres to a multidimensional approach to the study of religiosity, which in the most generalized form represents religiosity as a complex heterogeneous phenomenon comprising different definitive elements. In 2022, a survey and interviews were conducted among Muslim students in secular and religious higher educational institutions of Tatarstan. The study revealed the most common forms of religiosity among Muslim students of Tatarstan. A significant part of the respondents believe in Allah and feel the influence of God in their lives, turn to Him in different life situations. However, not all informants perform ritual duties (saying prayers, fasting, etc.). The daily life of the students interviewed is not always built according to Islamic norms and may include building family relationships, choosing a job, and buying a home. The study showed that the answers of students of secular and religious educational institutions vary greatly on some questions. For example, religious activity (participation in religious events) is demonstrated in various degrees only by the students of religious institutions. Among the students surveyed, there also are superstitious people who believe in omens, signs, horoscopes, etc.