THE ROLE OF ISLAM IN PRESERVING THE UNIQUENESS OF THE KAZAKH NATION

Abstract

Today, “identity” is one of the main concepts that is widely used. Among them, religious identity is considered an important phenomenon in the formation of national values. The article examines the role of Islam in preserving the ethnic identity of the Kazakh people.

Countries with the same origin, similar history and language, as well as countries located geographically close to each other, have common or similar religious beliefs. This is evidenced by the widespread spread of Islam among the Turkic-speaking peoples living in Central Asia. The system of customs of the Kazakh people is also combined with religious values. Living together is very important for people living in a harsh climate zone. Islam also calls for solidarity and harmony.

The colonial policy of the last century turned the Kazakh people into a multinational and multi-religious country. Also, historical and political processes have made changes to the system of national and religious values.

The «Рухани жаңғыру» program was launched with the goal of restoring the ethnic identity of the Kazakh people. This project provides for the revival of national identity and religious phenomenon based on the direction of tolerance in a secular state.