THE EMERGENCE AND IMPORTANCE OF PILGRIMAGE ROUTES IN THE RUSSIAN EMPIRE: FROM THE STEPPE REGION TO MECCA

Abstract

The article presents an analysis of the process by which pilgrimage routes from various regions of Russia have been established to the sacred sites of Mecca and Medina. This study examines the conditions and problems of the development of the pilgrimage movement in the Russian Empire that occurred during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In addition, it analyzes the meaning and features of pilgrimage routes. The significance of sacred pilgrimage for a considerable number of Muslims within the empire, regardless of its size, frequently gave rise to concerns on the part of the empire. The establishment of a Russian consular network along pilgrimage routes provides evidence that imperial state policy towards pilgrimage was initiated during the late 19th century. Furthermore, the establishment of select official roadways served to reinforce their control over the Muslim populations situated along these routes. However, the construction of the railway network and the revival of sea routes in the Russian Empire created significant opportunities for Muslim peoples. The decrease in travel time was accompanied by an increase in safety. Subsequently, the number of Russian Muslims, including those undertaking pilgrimages from the Kazakh steppes, began to increase markedly. It should be noted that official documentation was a prerequisite for travel on state-designated routes. In light of these developments, the question of obtaining special Hajj passports is also being considered.

Key words: pilgrimage, Russian Empire, railway network, steamships, pilgrimage routes.