Aylarova, Svetlana A.
Kavkaz Forum. 2024. Issue 20.

Abstract:
The Islamic studies works of the Ossetian educator, philosopher and theologian
A.A. Gassiev are an important part of his scientific heritage. They are fundamental, that is,
based on a solid source and historiographic base, demonstrate excellent knowledge of the
history and culture of Islam, all its texts, symbols and myths. Like all Russian missionary Islamic
studies, the works of A.A. Gassiev include a dual goal – to prove the cultural and dogmatic
inconsistency of Islam, and at the same time to understand Islam as a special cultural and
religious phenomenon, its historical roots, the circumstances of its origin and connection with
a certain ethnic tradition, the reasons for its rapid spread and historical triumph. A special
theme of the theological studies of the educator is the proof of the deep connections of the
Koranic doctrine with Christianity, highlighting those points that bring together and at the
same time distinguish its dogmas from the biblical and Christian ones. Mastering the internal
logic of the Koran leads the Ossetian theologian to the conviction that the universal, humane,
humane truths of the divine Book of Muslims (bringing Islam closer to Christianity) have been
subjected to distortion during Muslim history, and the basic principles of doctrine have been
subjected to a tendentious revision by official theology, serving the political interests of state
power. Missionary Islamic studies, despite its ideological predeterminedness and a certain
tendentiousness, are still relevant and in demand today due to the depth of intellectual
search and the wealth of sources. These qualities are the guarantee of the enduring value and
religious studies heritage of A.A. Gassiev.

Keywords: A.A. Gassiev, Christianity, Islam, Koran, missionary Islamic studies, theology, interreligious dialogue.

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