ACCULTURATION, SYNCRETATION AND TRANSFORMATION: THE ABSORPTION OF BUDDHIST-SHAMANIC PRACTICES INTO ISLAMIC CEREMONIES IN THE TERRITORY OF MOVARUNNAHR IN THE 9TH–12TH CENTURIES
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.69691/n401np42Keywords:
acculturation, syncretism, Buddhism, shamanism, Islamization, Sufism, Transoxiana.Abstract
This article examines the spread of Islam in Transoxiana during the 9th–12th centuries, focusing on the incorporation of Buddhist and shamanic practices into Islamic rituals, as evidenced by historical sources. Within the framework of acculturation and cultural transformation, these traditions were gradually adapted to Islamic festivals, Sufi practices, and popular customs. The findings demonstrate that local traditions did not entirely disappear; rather, certain elements persisted within the new religious environment. Notably, traces of Buddhist and shamanic heritage can be observed in Sufi rituals. This historical syncretism contributed to the emergence of distinctive religious practices in Central Asia.
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