Orthodoxy and Islam: Toward a Theological Dialogue

Abstract

The problem of peaceful coexistence of Orthodox and Muslims is extremely important for Ukraine. Orthodoxy is the country's largest denomination. Gradually, Islam is leading the way, with over one million apologists here, and this figure tends to grow. However, if Orthodoxy is sufficiently learned in Ukraine, then a systematic study of the doctrine and practice of Islam is just beginning. This is due primarily to the fact that for a long time (at least in the times of Soviet totalitarianism) there has been some neglect in the Islamic area. It was believed that the mass relocation of Crimean Tatars, the elimination of Muslim centers in Kiev and the practical localization of Muslim life in the Donetsk region offset the problem of Islam.