how many islamic country in world

2 min read 08-09-2024

Islam is one of the most practiced religions globally, with over 1.9 billion followers. As a result, there are several countries where Islam is the predominant religion, shaping their cultures, laws, and societies. In this article, we will explore how many Islamic countries exist in the world today.

Understanding Islamic Countries

What Defines an Islamic Country?

An Islamic country is generally characterized by the following features:

Majority Muslim Population: A significant portion of the population practices Islam.
Sharia Law: Some countries implement Islamic law (Sharia) to varying degrees within their legal systems.
Cultural Influence: Islamic principles influence the culture, politics, and everyday life of the country's citizens.

Number of Islamic Countries

As of now, there are 57 member states in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), which is an organization founded to promote and protect the interests of Muslims worldwide. These countries can be classified as Islamic, ranging from those with Islam as the state religion to countries where it plays a significant cultural role.

List of Some Prominent Islamic Countries

Here’s a brief list of some well-known Islamic countries:

Saudi Arabia
Indonesia
Pakistan
Bangladesh
Turkey
Egypt
Iran
Iraq
Jordan
Malaysia

Types of Islamic Countries

Islamic countries can vary significantly in terms of governance, culture, and interpretation of Islamic law. Here are three categories:

1. Theocratic States

Countries where religious leaders hold political power (e.g., Iran).

2. Secular States

Countries where Islam is a major religion but the government is secular (e.g., Turkey).

3. Monarchical States

Countries with royal families where Islam is intertwined with the monarchy (e.g., Saudi Arabia).

Conclusion

In summary, there are 57 recognized Islamic countries that play significant roles in world affairs, culture, and religion. Each country brings its unique interpretation and practice of Islam, which contributes to a rich tapestry of Islamic culture globally.

For further reading on specific Islamic countries and their cultural practices, check out our articles on Saudi Arabia's Culture and The Role of Islam in Indonesia.

Key Takeaways

57 Islamic countries are members of the OIC.
Countries vary in their adherence to Sharia law and religious practices.
The influence of Islam permeates cultural, political, and legal aspects of life in these nations.

By understanding the diverse nature of Islamic countries, we can appreciate their unique contributions to the global community.