ABSTRACT

The Russian Orthodox Church asserts itself as the definitive expression of Russian nationhood. Alternative worldviews are marginalized. The gravest consequence of this antagonism is its exacerbation of separatist tendencies among Russian Muslims, who seek to establish Islam locally in opposition to Patriarchate hegemony nationally. Far from its mystical vision, the Orthodox-centred model of Russian identity is thus failing to consolidate the modern Russian nation. Alone, this will not trigger widespread civil conflict or the collapse of the Russian Federation. Yet the situation could deteriorate rapidly, especially in combination with other, more potent factors such as rising social disaffection. Jehovah 's Witness Aleksei Nazarychev cites a fitting Russian proverb when considering the piecemeal early stages of the ongoing state campaign to oppress his fellow believers. ‘A Russian harnesses slowly but rides fast [Russkii chelovek medlenno zapriagaetsia, no bystro edet].’ 1