Journal Of Islamic Denominations

Journal Of Islamic Denominations

Relationships of Shiite Groups in Oman with the Government and Other Muslims

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
Majid Beykzadeh Alisha 1
Seyyed Abolhasan Navvab 2
Mohammad Hassan Mohammadi Mozaffar 3
1 PhD student, Shiite Studies, University of Religions and Denominations, Qom, Iran
2 Associate Professor, Department of Jurisprudential Schools, University of Religions and Denominations, Qom, Iran
3 Assistant Professor, Department of Shiite Studies, University of Religions and Denominations, Qom, Iran
10.22034/jid.2024.288112.2214
Abstract
Shiites in Oman are not a homogeneous group; they include Baluch, Khojas, Bahraini, and Omani Arabs, each with distinct identities and perspectives. These differences have led to varying degrees of integration into their host communities. Efforts to bridge gaps between Omani Shiites and other denominations must first address internal obstacles within the Shiite community itself. Additionally, legal and structural constraints imposed by the government to limit new activities pose another challenge. Any efforts to organize Omani Shiites may also raise concerns with the Omani government, which maintains strong relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran. This article, using bibliographical research and interviews with a senior expert on Omani issues, explores the Shiite presence in Omani society, their interactions with the Ibadis (the majority in Oman who hold governmental power and share several commonalities with Shiites), and proposes that Omani Ibadis could serve as a viable bridge for cultural diplomacy between the Islamic Republic of Iran and Oman.
Keywords
Oman
Shia
Ibadism
Islamic denominations
relationships and interactions
Subjects
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Journal Of Islamic Denominations
Volume 11, Issue 21 - Serial Number 21
September 2024
Pages 67-92