“What Do They Say in Mosques? Islamic Discourse on Limiting Ritual Expenses”

Abstract

This article examines the changes in religious policy, Islamic beliefs, religious life, national values, and family rituals in Uzbekistan during the years of independence. Particularly, it analyzes a series of fatwas, guidelines, and theses on Friday prayer topics published by the Office of Muslims of Uzbekistan in recent years. The author substantiates the amalgamation of religious and national perspectives in Uzbek family rituals, encompassing childbirth, marriage, and mourning ceremonies, drawing on ethnographic materials. Furthermore, it delves into the views of Islamic scholars and imams concerning the reduction of specific expenses and extravagances in these rituals, citing examples from Friday prayers and various social networks. Through anthropological observations of modern Uzbek society, including Muslims' public activities, Friday prayers, neighborhoods, and community events, as well as through various TV talk shows and radio broadcasts, the article explores "Aqiqa" ceremonies, circumcision weddings, marriages, and mourning rituals conducted by Uzbek imams in matters of family and marriage. The author highlights the discussions of "Amru Ma'ruf" topics during ceremonies, widely debated on mosque websites, imams' pages, and social media platforms (Telegram, Facebook, Instagram). The article underscores the impact of Islamic scholars' and imams' ongoing efforts, noting changes in the balance of expenses in the ceremonial life of the Uzbek people, particularly evident in marriage ceremonies. Moreover, it analyzes changes and transformative processes in Uzbek family rituals from the perspective of ritual economy.