Religion

What is the main religion in Oman, and how does it affect the culture?

In Oman approximately 88% of the population are Muslims (75% Ibadi Muslims and 25% Sunni and Shia, according to snl.no) Other religious groups are Hindus, Sikhs, Christians and Buddhists. However, most of these are expatriates.

Islam is a monotheistic religion. It is the youngest of the five world religions; moreover, it is the second largest in the world. The religion is currently increasing worldwide.  

Religious meetings are not allowed in private homes, and teaching is obligatory in elementary, middle and high school; however, non-Muslims may apply for exemption.                                                  

The religion affects the culture in many different ways. First, Muslims are expected to pray five times during the day. Second, it says something about how one should dress (abaya and dishdash). Third, Muslims are not allowed to eat pork, because the meat is believed to be dirty. This belief comes from a time when a dangerous parasite, called trichinella existed. According to Muslims, the pig has a bad appetite as well, it eats its own and other animal´s excrement, and due to lack of sweat glands, the pig´s sweat end up in the meat. Other animals can be eaten only if slaughtered by halal method. The religion affects society´s view on women as well. In the Quran, men are highly valued and women are supposed to serve the man. Moreover, this view has changed drastically during the last decades. Women today have the rights to an education, a lot choose to work and it is one´s own choice to wear abaya or not. However, most still do, because of old traditions. 

To conclude, Islam has a great impact on the culture of Oman; however, a gradual modernization of the country and its views has taken place during the last decades.