Khazar Muslims

"Muslims dominate the country of the Khazars, because they are the ones that make up the royal guard: they are known under the name Lariçiyeh [al-Larsiyya].

From the vicinity of the Khorezm, they came to settle the kingdom of the Khazars, shortly after the advent of Islam, fleeing the double scourge of war and plague; they are very brave men and bravery which the king of the Khazars sits confidently in the wars he undertakes.

In settling into its empire, they stipulated, among other conditions to their advantage, they have the free exercise of their religion; they could build mosques, prayer they would be publicly announced, and the Vizier would always chosen from among them. Whoever occupies nowadays this high office is actually a Muslim named Ahmed ibn Kowaïh.

It was agreed that whenever the king of the Khazars would be at war with Muslims, those who serve in his army would stand aside and not fight their coreligionists, but march against all infidels. Today seven thousand of them form the horse archers of the king: they wear the armour, helmet and chain-mail, there are some among them who are armed with lances and equipped as are the ordinary Muslims. They are also judges of their own religion."

"Outside of the Lariçijeh one must still count a certain number of Muslims, merchants or artisans, who emigrated recently, because of the justice and security enjoyed in this empire."
Al-Masudi, Meadows of Gold and Quarries of Jewels

"Besides a large mosque, whose minaret dominates the royal castle, they have several other mosques of lesser importance, to which are annexed schools where children learn to read the Koran."
Al Masudi, Meadows of Gold and Quarries of Jewels