The practices of implementation of digital technologies in Islamic society (on the example of Hajj)

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Abstract: This article is dedicated to the problem of innovativeness of traditional religions and their compatibility with the technological novelties. On the example of Hajj – one of the major Islamic rituals, the author examines the use of digital technologies in realization of the annual pilgrimage of the Muslims. Emphasis is made on studying the process of using the Hajj-related mobile applications that allow the believers and nonbelievers to connect with the religious action in the virtual space. Mobile interface allows each user to receive information on religion, sacred texts, stamping grounds, as well as contains theological interpretation of the rituals, audio and visual content. The research was carried out in the Islamic segment of Internet; the author conducted content analysis of the information and discussion content pertinent to Hajj. The acquired results testify to the expansion of virtualization of Islam along with the use of digital technologies in the conservative religious field. The popularity of digital images, social networks, “virtual Hajj” among the Internet users contribute to the increase of communicative and discussion activity in Islamic society with regards to the questions of “veracity” and need for using information technologies by the believers.