How Islam Became the State and Only Religion of the Maldives

The Maldives' conversion to Islam was a gradual process influenced by its geographical location, cultural exchanges, and strategic trade links. Before Islam, the Maldivian people practiced Buddhism and, earlier, forms of Hinduism. These earlier faiths left cultural and archaeological marks, including Buddhist stupas and monasteries, some of which are still evident today.

The Role of Trade

The Maldives lies along the maritime routes of the Indian Ocean, which were vital for trade between the Middle East, India, Southeast Asia, and East Africa. Arab traders frequently visited the islands to acquire cowrie shells, a significant currency in many parts of the ancient world, as well as dried fish and coconuts. These traders brought not only goods but also their religion and customs, creating opportunities for cultural exchange. Over time, their influence grew, as they established relationships with local leaders and communities.

The Conversion of the Maldivian King

The most pivotal moment in the Maldives' Islamic history occurred in 1153. According to legend, a Moroccan traveler and scholar, Abu al-Barakat Yusuf al-Barbari (or al-Tamimi in some accounts), played a significant role. The king of the Maldives, Sri Tribuvana Aditiya, was reportedly moved to convert after al-Barakat's arrival and his spiritual guidance. Some versions of the story include accounts of the scholar saving the islands from a sea demon (a jinni) that demanded virgin sacrifices, further cementing his influence and the appeal of Islam.

Following the king’s conversion, he adopted the Islamic name Sultan Muhammad al-Adil and declared Islam the state religion. This decision unified the islands under a common faith, providing a stronger sense of identity and cohesion in a society composed of many scattered atolls.

Institutionalizing Islam

The adoption of Islam brought significant changes to Maldivian society:

1. Religious Leadership: Mosques replaced Buddhist temples as centers of worship and community life. Religious leaders, or imams, began guiding spiritual and social matters.
2. Islamic Governance: The sultanate was established, aligning the Maldives with the Islamic political and legal traditions of the time. Islamic law (Sharia) became the basis for governance.
3. Education and Language: Arabic became an important language for religious scholarship, and the local script, Thaana, was influenced by Arabic script.

Sustained Islamic Influence

The Maldives maintained close ties with the Islamic world after the conversion. The country’s leaders often interacted with Muslim scholars and rulers, reinforcing Islamic traditions and practices. Over time, Sunni Islam became deeply ingrained in the daily lives and identity of the Maldivian people.

Legacy

Today, the Maldives is one of the world's most devoutly Muslim nations. Islam plays a central role in Maldivian culture, law, and governance. The country's constitution mandates Sunni Islam as the state religion, and all citizens are required to be Muslim. This deep connection to Islam has persisted for nearly 900 years, shaping the Maldives' identity and way of life.