Religious Traditions and the Foundations of Contemporary Faith

In this chapter, the author examines the tensions between religious belief and national tradition in today’s society. He argues that spirituality has lost its essence and has increasingly become reduced to external rituals. Through a historical analysis of Islam, the prophetic legacy, and how the Kazakh people uniquely embraced the faith, the author identifies key reasons why contemporary religious practice has weakened.

One of the core conceptual distinctions in the chapter is between the Kazakh words “dіn” (religion) and “senіm” (faith). The author explains:

“Religion is law. Faith is action. To follow religion without action is empty talk. And to live by faith without sharia is to go astray.”

This implies that religion should not be treated merely as a set of rules — rather, it is a value system rooted in intention, morality, and personal practice. Faith is not abstract belief but a lived discipline.

Drawing from the Sufi teachings of Ahmad Yasawi, the author quotes:

“Sharia is the head, tariqat is the neck, and haqiqat is the heart.”

In his view, many modern believers possess the “head” — the formal aspect — but fail to reach the “heart,” the inner spiritual depth. This critique highlights a loss of sincerity and over-reliance on ritual.

The author also provides an example of how religiosity can be superficial:

“Wearing a robe, growing a beard, and reciting Arabic prayers does not make someone a true believer. These are just outer forms of religion. A real Muslim is one whose heart holds modesty, whose words carry kindness, and whose actions are clean.”

The chapter also includes a historical reflection: while Islam originated in Arabia, it adapted differently in each culture it reached. Among Kazakhs, the faith was not diluted but harmonized with national customs and worldview. Today, however, there is a tendency to revert to mere form and appearance, losing the inner dimension.

The author identifies several factors undermining the foundations of faith:
 – Fanaticism rooted in ignorance
 – Preaching without deep understanding
 – A lack of sincere inner work and personal reflection

He concludes that society today is full of those who act knowledgeable, but sincere God-conscious individuals (taqwa) have become rare.