Abstract

In this article, a significant collection of new materials related to Islamic culture in Kazakhstan at the beginning of the 20th century, which have been incorporated into scholarly research, is presented. It involves the analysis and study of Arabic manuscripts preserved in the personal archive and book collection of the religious scholar, historian, writer, poet, and spiritual leader Momaqan Aliyev, who lived in the city of Kokshetau in modern Kazakhstan. The aim and primary ideas of this research are to draw attention of the public and researchers to the scholarly legacy and works of Momaqan Aliyev, as well as to his book collection and writings for further academic investigation.
Various scientific methods and techniques were applied during the research, including heuristics, paleography, codicology of manuscripts in Eastern languages, diplomatics, genealogy, and religious studies. Valuable data and research findings were obtained as a result.
The article also discusses the content and stylistic features of Momaqan Aliyev’s writings, as well as his objectives in creating the manuscripts. It underscores the significance of this research for the scholarly community and presents a virtual catalog that facilitates access to materials and information in Momaqan Aliyev’s manuscripts for researchers. The outcomes of this work contribute to a deeper understanding of the spiritual and cultural heritage of Islamic culture in Kazakhstan, especially in the context of the new history of religious studies in the country.
Furthermore, this research holds importance in identifying the influence of scholars and religious leaders on the development of religious policies in Kazakhstan during the period of shaping new dynamics in education and interfaith relations. The current success in the development of religious education and science in Kazakhstan, as well as a more profound exploration of Islamic culture in the country, is impossible without the systematic analysis of documents and research conducted based on the manuscripts and books of Momaqan Aliyev.