Doha
The lecture titled “Russian Orientalism and the Islamic World” introduced the concept of Orientalism with a particular focus on the Russian experience, highlighting the historical roots of cultural relations between Russia and the Islamic world.
Professor Mahmood Al-Hamza explored early cultural interactions, including the spread of Islam in regions such as Dagestan, and how this contributed to the growth of Russian interest in Islamic studies and the Arabic language, especially after the expansion of the Russian Empire into Muslim-majority territories.
The lecture also reviewed the contributions of prominent Russian orientalists and Arabists, emphasizing the role of Muhammad Ayad Al-Tantawi in teaching Arabic and preparing Russian travelers and diplomats to better understand Islamic societies.
It further addressed developments in the modern era, including the establishment of Oriental studies centers and the role of Peter the Great in initiating the translation of the Holy Quran into Russian and strengthening cultural and religious ties.
The lecture concluded by underscoring the importance of studying Russian Orientalism in a balanced and scholarly manner to better understand its intellectual and historical trajectory over more than three centuries.
