Orthodox Revivalism in Russia: Driving Forces and Moral Quests

This book explores the social background and moral attitudes of a small flock of believers in Russia, revealing that their complex moral beliefs have a disproportionately high impact on society, with a strong emphasis on personal perfection and collective ideas concerning religious nationalism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 204 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Orthodoxy has experienced a significant resurgence in Russia since the collapse of Communism. However, it is intriguing to note that despite a strong sense of identification with Orthodoxy, there is a relatively low level of church attendance. This book, based on extensive ethnographic fieldwork, delves into the social backgrounds and moral attitudes of a small but active group of believers who actively participate in religious life. It uncovers that the complex moral beliefs held by the faithful have a profound impact on Russian society as a whole; that there is a strong emphasis on striving for personal perfection among the faithful; and that there are also strong collective ideas regarding religious nationalism and the interplay between the secular and the religious.

The revival of Orthodoxy in Russia has been a remarkable phenomenon following the collapse of Communism. While there is a strong sense of identification with Orthodoxy among the Russian population, there is a paradoxical low level of church attendance. This book, based on extensive ethnographic fieldwork, aims to explore the social background and moral attitudes of the small flock of believers who actively participate in religious life.

Through in-depth ethnographic research, the book reveals several key findings. Firstly, it highlights the complex moral beliefs held by the faithful, which have a disproportionately high impact on Russian society as a whole. The Orthodox Church emphasizes personal perfection and moral values, which are deeply ingrained in the culture and society of Russia. The faithful strive to live up to these ideals and seek to embody them in their daily lives.

Secondly, the book emphasizes the strong emphasis on striving for personal perfection among the faithful. The Orthodox Church encourages its members to pursue spiritual growth and self-improvement, and many believers take this responsibility seriously. They engage in various religious practices, such as prayer, fasting, and meditation, to strengthen their faith and cultivate their moral character.

Thirdly, the book explores the strong collective ideas concerning religious nationalism and the synergy between the secular and the religious in Russian society. The Orthodox Church plays a significant role in shaping Russian identity and culture, and its teachings and values are deeply intertwined with the country's history and traditions. The faithful believe that the Orthodox Church is the true guardian of Russian culture and heritage, and they are actively involved in promoting its values and teachings.

Despite the strong emphasis on personal perfection and religious nationalism, the book also notes that there are challenges facing the Orthodox Church in Russia. One of the biggest challenges is the declining birth rate, which has led to a shortage of priests and religious leaders. This has resulted in a lack of resources and support for the church, which has been forced to rely on donations and volunteers to maintain its operations.

Another challenge is the increasing secularization of society, which has led to a decline in religious participation and a questioning of traditional religious values. Many young people in Russia are turning away from the Orthodox Church and seeking alternative forms of spirituality and self-expression.

Despite these challenges, the Orthodox Church in Russia remains a significant force in the country's social and cultural life. The faithful continue to uphold their traditions and values, and the church continues to play a role in promoting social harmony and moral values. The book concludes by highlighting the importance of understanding the social background and moral attitudes of the Orthodox faithful in Russia, as they play a crucial role in shaping the country's future.

Weight: 376g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367563851