The influence of Islam on the formation of wedding rites among the Karachays

Abstract

This article examines such an important topic for every people as marriage and its associated rituals. Every ethnic group has its own traditions, accumulated over centuries. The formation and development of these traditions is determined by many factors. These factors may include territorial characteristics, the temperament of the people, the influence of customs from other peoples, and religion. In this article, we attempt to analyze the role of religious factors in influencing the institution of marriage among the highlanders of the Central-Western Caucasus, particularly among the Karachays, who profess the Hanafi school of Islam. We also provide a comparative analysis of the similarities and differences between the various traditional stages of marriage among the Karachays living in the Caucasus and the Karachay-Balkar diaspora in Turkey, which underpins the relevance of this research topic. This study draws on both existing literature and the authors’ field observations. The research methodologically relies on the principles of historicism and objectivity, employing problem-chronological and comparative historical methods. The authors conclude that, despite territorial differences, the Karachays and Balkars of the Caucasus and of the Turkish Republic have preserved their traditions and customs. Islamic ritual principles reflected in Hanafi fiqh are of great importance to both groups.