Soviet Modernity and Islamic Scholarly Tradition in the Manuscripts of Fatḥ al-Qādir Babichev
Abstract
The article examines the merging of Soviet and Islamic discourses in the manuscripts of Muslim scholar Fatḥ al-Qādir Babichev (1890–1973). Engaging with atheistic ideology, Babichev crafts a unique refutation of atheism, where Marxist-Leninist and Islamic teachings intertwine, forming an integrated but complex discursive space where elements of each support the other. In analyzing the ways of such overlapping, I consider Babichev’s casus as a manifestation of “cultural bilingualism” in the late-Soviet context. The attempt to legitimize Islamic thought for Soviet realities and Soviet ideology for Islam demonstrates a nuanced Muslim engagement with the Soviet regime, suggesting a more intricate relationship than simple resistance or assimilation. A microhistorical lens reveals Babichev as an agent navigating various models of adaptation while contributing to the intellectual history of Soviet Muslims as keeper of local scholarly traditions.
About the Author
A. F. Yakupov
HSE University
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Azat F. Yakupov — Intern Researcher
Moscow
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Review
For citations:
Yakupov A.F. Soviet Modernity and Islamic Scholarly Tradition in the Manuscripts of Fatḥ al-Qādir Babichev. State, Religion and Church in Russia and Worldwide. 2026;44(1):93-122. (In Russ.)
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