<![CDATA[This study is a marker of the changing theological situation among Balkan Muslims by focusing on how Maturidism is relevant in history and today. The enquiry starts with a review of the key Islamic theological schools Maturidism, Asharism and Hanbalism emphasizing their methods of interpretation, their relations, and their doctrines. The rationalist background of Maturidism and its close relation to the Hanafi School that played a significant role in the formation of the Islamic religion in the Ottoman Empire and especially in the Balkans is also given special attention. The study is concerned with this theological heritage that has been handed down by the religious education and with special regard to the institutions that subscribe to the teachings of Maturid. Moreover, the rising might of globalization and cultural openness are a big challenge to these old creeds. The other notable area of attention is the evolution of Salafi and Hadithi interpretations, which is the contrary of the rationalist tradition of Maturidism. This study examines the popularity of these movements especially among the youth and the urban communities and the fact that the movements are growing rapidly is a source of theological conflict. Comparative study of Maturid and Salafis discourses provides a contrastive epistemology, hierarchy of authority and scriptural interpretation. The study also assess the efforts of the Islamic councils, religious leaders and schools to maintain Maturidi identity. Moreover, it evaluates the contribution of the digital media and contemporary communication sources to youth religious preferences. The latter parts reflect on the ways universities and institutes can strengthen the Maturidi doctrine to ensure religious unity and identity within the region. The study ends by emphasizing the importance of strategic interest in theological diversity, with the view of finding a co-existence without compromising on the intellectual and spiritual heritage of Balkan Islam.]]>
