Seljuk Turks' conversion to Islam

The Seljuk Turks originally practiced their native Turkic pagan beliefs but gradually converted to Islam over several centuries, beginning around the 10th century. This shift was influenced by political alliances, trade, and cultural interactions with the Muslim-majority Persian and Arab societies. Many Seljuk leaders adopted Islam to strengthen their political power, gain legitimacy, and integrate more effectively into the established Islamic world. As a result, Islam became the dominant religion among the Seljuk Turks, shaping their culture, governance, and military practices, and enabling them to expand their influence across Persia, the Middle East, and Central Asia.