|
Oman is a country which offers home to a number of religious communities. As diverse religious groups thrive here with their distinct religious beliefs and practices, Oman stands enriched with the distinct patterns of each. Though the country is primarily Islamic, the different religions in Oman are allowed to maintain the unique traits of their own, thus resulting in a nation which stands as a melting pot of cultures from across the globe. As in the other Arabic countries, Islam stands as the major religion in Oman as well. Islam is in fact, the official religion of Oman, though the Basic Law of the country is liberal towards the other religions as well. About eighty six percent of the country's population comprises of Muslims who have been residing in the region down the ages. The other religious groups which the country accommodates have actually migrated to settle in the country in recent years, or have been formed as a result of the country's interaction with the foreign nations. Most of the Muslims here belong to the Ibadi sect, and though the branch has gradually waned in the other Muslim countries, Oman still boasts of a majority of Ibadi population. The non Ibadi population comprises mostly of Sunni muslims, who contribute to about twenty five percent of the religion in Oman. A minor portion of the population follows the Shia sect. About thirteen percent of the population in Oman comprises of Hindus, who have primarily migrated to the country. A small section of the country follows Christianity as Catholicism had entered the country in some phase of history. Religion in Oman forms a vital part of the country's life as the country houses a populace which is marked by its devotion. Numerous mosques stand gallantly across the country with their exquisite architecture. In fact, the country boasts of a number of excellent mosques like Sultan Quaboos Grand Mosque which remains a brilliant piece of work. As religion bears a close kinship with the life and Culture of Oman , the music and dance forms of the country show considerable religious overtones.
|
