Definition
Ibadhi Islam (also spelled Ibadi) is a distinct school of Islamic thought that predates the historical Sunni-Shia split and traces its origins to the early decades of Islam in the seventh century CE. Ibadhi theology is characterised by its emphasis on piety, consultation (shura), elected rather than hereditary leadership, and a moderate approach to theological disputes. Oman is the only country in the world where Ibadhi Muslims form the majority of the population, and the school has profoundly shaped Omani culture, governance, and foreign policy.
Context in Oman
Ibadhi Islam arrived in Oman in the early eighth century and became the dominant tradition through a system of elected imams who governed the interior. The Ibadhi emphasis on tolerance, moderation, and consultation has influenced Oman reputation as a mediator in regional conflicts and its tradition of religious coexistence. Oman hosts significant Sunni and Shia minorities alongside Hindu, Christian, and Buddhist communities, all practicing freely. The Ibadhi tradition has also shaped Oman architectural heritage, with distinct mosque designs featuring simple, unadorned prayer halls that reflect Ibadhi emphasis on spiritual substance over outward display.
Key Data Points
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Global Ibadhi population | ~3 million |
| Oman Ibadhi share of population | ~45-50 % (largest Ibadhi community) |
| Other Ibadhi communities | North Africa (Algeria, Tunisia, Libya) |
| Key historical institution | Elected Imamate |
| Theological character | Moderate, tolerant, consultative |
Vision 2040 Connection
Vision 2040 People and Society pillar recognises Oman cultural identity, including its Ibadhi heritage, as a source of social cohesion and national pride. The strategy promotes cultural understanding, interfaith dialogue, and the preservation of Ibadhi scholarship and architectural heritage as pillars of Omani identity in a globalising world.
Further Reading
- [[What is Aflaj Irrigation]]
- [[Oman Frankincense Trade]]
- [[What is Vision 2040]]