Articles

Position and status of the Arabic language on the Comoros

Vostok/Oriens '2016, №2

 
The Comoros is one of the most poorly explored states in Oriental studies. Arabic holds a special place in the local sociolinguistic situation and has a status of official language there, although it is rarely used in everyday communication. Being a non-Arab state in itself, this country, however, is a member of the Arab League despite the fact that its admission to this organization was rather motivated by religious, political and economic considerations. Arabic on the Comoros still plays a key role as the language of Islam and the sacred book of all Muslims – Quran; it is constantly used in various religious rituals and ceremonies. Besides, it is an integral part of preschool training in Quranic schools and secondary Muslim education in state and private madrasas.

Keywords: the Comoros, Arab countries, Arabic language, Islam, Quranic schools, the Arab League, Muslim education

Pages: С. 86–99