Religious hierarchy and social image of Muslim clergy in the Kirghiz (Kazakh) steppe

The late XVIII century, particularly the 1780s, is regarded as a pivotal period for the official introduction of Tatar clergy into the Steppe. This clergy served as intermediaries between the imperial administration and the Kirghiz populace. Russian authorities favored Tatar religious figures due to the shared Turkic roots and the proximity of ethnic characteristics between the Tatars and the Kirghiz, which facilitated the tasks assigned to the appointed mullahs. Furthermore, the Muslim clergy of the Steppe played an active role in the political landscape of the Kirghiz (Kazakh) Steppe. Mullahs held considerable social influence and were responsible for interpreting and disseminating governmental decrees. In addition, the clergy engaged in the instruction of Islamic teachings to the younger generation, thereby executing educational initiatives alongside their religious responsibilities. Overall, they were positioned to undertake a variety of roles, adapting to the prevailing conditions of life in the Steppe. The article concludes that the interaction between official and religious authorities in the Steppe was mutually beneficial, as it did not obstruct the objectives of either party within the territory of the Kirghiz (Kazakh) Steppe. This symbiosis facilitated a cooperative framework that allowed for the achievement of respective goals in the context of a complex sociopolitical environment.