What is the religion of Russia?

As an expert in the field of religious studies and cultural anthropology, I have spent considerable time researching and analyzing the religious landscape of various countries, including Russia. Russia is a vast and diverse nation with a rich tapestry of religious beliefs and practices. The religious landscape of Russia is complex and multifaceted, reflecting the country's long history and the myriad of cultural influences it has absorbed over the centuries. Orthodox Christianity has been the dominant religion in Russia for over a thousand years, with its roots stretching back to the conversion of Vladimir the Great in 988 AD. The Russian Orthodox Church has played a significant role in shaping the country's culture, traditions, and national identity. It has also been a source of spiritual guidance and moral authority for many Russians throughout history. However, it is important to note that Russia is a secular state, and the constitution guarantees freedom of religion. This means that while Orthodox Christianity is the most widely practiced faith, there are numerous other religious groups that also have a significant presence in the country. Islam is indeed the second largest religion in Russia, with a long history and a strong presence, particularly in the North Caucasus region and among certain ethnic groups such as the Tatars and Bashkirs. The Islamic community in Russia is diverse, with followers of both Sunni and Shia branches of the faith. The influence of Islam in Russia is not only religious but also cultural, with many aspects of Islamic art, architecture, and literature contributing to the country's rich cultural heritage. In addition to Orthodox Christianity and Islam, Russia is home to a variety of other religious traditions. Buddhism has a presence, particularly among ethnic groups from the Russian Far East such as the Buryats and Kalmyks. Judaism also has a history in Russia, with Jewish communities having existed in the country for centuries, although their numbers have fluctuated due to various historical events, including the Holocaust and the mass emigration that followed the fall of the Soviet Union. There is also a significant number of Protestant Christians, including Baptists, Pentecostals, and other evangelical groups, who have gained followers since the collapse of the Soviet Union. The Protestant movement has been growing, and it represents a more recent addition to the religious diversity of Russia. Furthermore, there are communities of Hindus, Baha'is, and other religious minorities, as well as a growing number of people who identify as non-religious or spiritual but not religious. The latter group may engage in various spiritual practices without adhering to a specific religious doctrine. The religious diversity in Russia is a testament to the country's history of cultural exchange and its policy of religious tolerance. It is also a reflection of the individual choices and spiritual journeys of its citizens. Understanding the religious landscape of Russia requires a nuanced approach that takes into account the historical, cultural, and social contexts in which these beliefs and practices have developed. In conclusion, while Orthodox Christianity is the most prevalent religion in Russia, the country's religious landscape is characterized by a rich diversity that includes Islam, Buddhism, Judaism, Protestant Christianity, and other faiths. This diversity is a source of both strength and complexity, contributing to the vibrant cultural mosaic that is modern Russia.

Islam is the second largest religion in Russia after Orthodox Christianity. It is the historicaly dominant religion among some Caucasian ethnic groups (notably the Chechens, the Ingush and the Adyghe), and some Turkic peoples (notably the Tatars and the Bashkirs).