ISLAMIC SCHOLARS ACTIVE IN THE RELIGIOUS-SPIRITUAL AND SCIENTIFIC-SOCIAL SPHERES IN WESTERN AZERBAIJAN

At the turn of the 19 th to the 20 th century, the city of Iravan (Yerevan) emerged not only as a center of trade and administration but also as a significant hub of religious and cultural life. During this period, a number of spiritually enlightened intellectuals were active within Iravan’s scholarly circles. Throughout history, in Azerbaijan - including the Iravan region, which is an inseparable part of it - religious figures have played a crucial role in shaping the spiritual life of society, developing religious thought, and advancing the movement of enlightenment. This article examines prominent religious scholars of Western Azerbaijani origin who taught Islamic law (sharia) and religious studies in schools and seminaries across the region. Akhund Molla Muhammad Baqir Qazizadeh is recognized as one of the leading intellectuals who took significant initiatives in the field of education in late 19th and early 20th century Iravan. His pedagogical and public contributions were held in high regard. The article also highlights the life and educational activities of other distinguished religious and social figures of the period, including Mirza Abbas Muhammadzadeh, Mirza Mammadvali Qamarli (Qamarliński), Akhund Abulhasan Qazizadeh, Mirza Molla Alakbar Elkhanov, and Mirza Huseyn Agha.