Divine attributes in the Maturidi teachings and traditional religious belief of the Kazakh nation: comparative analysis

Abstract

Divine attributes, or the qualities of God, represent one of the most intricate and significant subjects within the Islamic tradition. It is fair to assert that this significance stems from its direct connection to the Creator. This matter has ignited debates among scholars and stirred controversies among various theological schools. Notably, Abu Mansur al-Maturidi and key figures from the Maturidi theological school are integral to this discussion. Their principal adversaries promptly countered the positions of groups like the Mutazila, Jabriya, and Qadaria, providing accurate interpretations and solutions. The article explores the origins and development of these divine attributes, elucidating the concept as understood by influential thinkers from the Kazakh steppe who engaged with religious topics. The works of Abai, Shakarim, Ybyrai, Mashhur Zhusip, and other religious scholars from the XIX-XX centuries played a pivotal role in shaping the traditional religious teachings of the Kazakh populace. These works encompassed theological, religious-legal, and Sufi topics. Being deeply immersed in the social dynamics of their era, these educators possessed a profound understanding of the spiritual matters and effectively communicated these concepts to a broad audience. Their writings and poetry serve as evidence of this engagement. In this article, we aim to evaluate how the findings of Maturidi faith scholars align with the traditional religious wisdom of the Kazakh people. This analysis illustrates that the scholarly and theoretical foundations of traditional Islam, as referenced by Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Kemeluly Tokayev, are grounded in sound theological reasoning.

Key words: Maturidi school of faith, divine, attribute, tradition, religious knowledge