11.3 Turkish Islamic culture
8 min read•august 21, 2024
Turkish Islamic culture blends Central Asian traditions with Islamic beliefs, shaping Turkish society for centuries. The gradual conversion of Turkic peoples to Islam, influenced by Sufi missionaries, created a unique synthesis of nomadic customs and Islamic principles.
The established comprehensive Islamic institutions, including the sultanate-caliphate and religious bureaucracy. Turkish Islamic architecture, art, and flourished, creating distinctive styles that reflected Ottoman power and spirituality. These elements continue to influence modern Turkish identity and diaspora communities.
Origins of Turkish Islam
- Turkish Islamic culture emerged from the synthesis of Central Asian nomadic traditions and Islamic beliefs
- The conversion of Turkic peoples to Islam profoundly shaped their cultural, political, and social structures
- Turkish Islam developed unique characteristics that blended Turkic customs with Islamic principles
Pre-Islamic Turkish beliefs
Top images from around the web for Pre-Islamic Turkish beliefs
Turkic peoples - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
Category:Tengrism - Wikimedia Commons View original
Is this image relevant?
Chamanismo - Wikipedia, la enciclopedia libre View original
Is this image relevant?
Turkic peoples - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
Category:Tengrism - Wikimedia Commons View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
Top images from around the web for Pre-Islamic Turkish beliefs
Turkic peoples - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
Category:Tengrism - Wikimedia Commons View original
Is this image relevant?
Chamanismo - Wikipedia, la enciclopedia libre View original
Is this image relevant?
Turkic peoples - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
Category:Tengrism - Wikimedia Commons View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
- Tengrism served as the primary pre-Islamic religion of Turkic peoples
- Shamanic practices played a central role in spiritual and social life
- Ancestor worship and nature veneration formed key components of early Turkic belief systems
- The concept of Kut (divine favor) influenced ideas of political legitimacy
Conversion to Islam
- Gradual process of Islamization began in the 8th century through contact with Arab-Muslim cultures
- (751 CE) marked a significant turning point in Turkic-Islamic relations
- Voluntary conversion often motivated by political, economic, and social factors
- became the first Turkic dynasty to convert to Islam en masse in the 10th century
Influence of Sufi orders
- Sufi missionaries played a crucial role in spreading Islam among Turkic populations
- Syncretism between Sufi teachings and pre-Islamic Turkic beliefs facilitated conversion
- Prominent Sufi orders (, , Mevlevi) shaped Turkish Islamic culture
- Sufi concepts of divine love and mysticism resonated with Turkic spiritual traditions
Ottoman Islamic institutions
- Ottoman Empire established a comprehensive system of Islamic governance and administration
- Islamic institutions formed the backbone of Ottoman social, political, and economic structures
- Ottoman Islamic institutions evolved over time, adapting to changing circumstances and influences
Sultanate and caliphate
- Ottoman sultans claimed the title of caliph, positioning themselves as leaders of the Muslim world
- Concept of Zillullah fi'l-ard (Shadow of God on Earth) legitimized Ottoman rule
- Sultans balanced secular and religious authority in governance
- Topkapi Palace served as the center of Ottoman imperial and religious power
Religious bureaucracy
- Sheikh al-Islam (Şeyhülislam) acted as the highest religious authority in the Ottoman Empire
- Ulema (religious scholars) played crucial roles in administration, education, and law
- Qadi courts administered justice based on Islamic law (Sharia)
- Muftis issued fatwas (religious opinions) to guide legal and social matters
Waqf system
- Charitable endowments (waqf) supported religious, educational, and social institutions
- Waqf system provided funding for mosques, schools, hospitals, and public works
- Sultans and elite members of society established waqfs as acts of piety and social responsibility
- Waqf administration created a parallel economic system alongside state and private sectors
Turkish Islamic architecture
- Turkish Islamic architecture blended Central Asian, Persian, Byzantine, and Arab influences
- Architectural styles evolved over time, reflecting changes in Ottoman power and aesthetics
- Turkish Islamic structures served both religious and social functions in urban landscapes
Mosques and minarets
- Central dome flanked by semi-domes characterized Ottoman mosque design
- Minarets grew taller and more numerous, symbolizing Ottoman power and prestige
- Süleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul exemplified the pinnacle of Ottoman architectural achievement
- Interior spaces featured intricate , tile work, and stained glass decorations
Madrasas and khanqahs
- Madrasas (religious schools) often built as part of mosque complexes
- Khanqahs (Sufi lodges) provided spaces for spiritual retreats and communal gatherings
- Sahn-ı Seman Medrese in Istanbul served as a premier institution of higher learning
- Architectural designs emphasized functionality, aesthetics, and spiritual atmosphere
Ottoman palace complexes
- Topkapi Palace combined administrative, residential, and religious functions
- Harem section housed the sultan's family and played a significant role in court politics
- Palace architecture reflected Ottoman concepts of power, luxury, and Islamic piety
- Dolmabahçe Palace later introduced European architectural elements into Ottoman design
Turkish Islamic art
- Turkish Islamic art synthesized various cultural influences into a distinctive style
- Ottoman patronage supported the development of diverse artistic traditions
- Art forms served both religious and secular purposes in Turkish Islamic society
Calligraphy and illumination
- Calligraphy held a preeminent position in Turkish Islamic art
- Development of unique calligraphic styles (Diwani, Thuluth) by Ottoman masters
- Illuminated manuscripts (Qurans, prayer books) showcased intricate designs and gold leaf
- Calligraphic inscriptions adorned architecture, textiles, and everyday objects
Ceramic and textile arts
- Iznik ceramics renowned for their distinctive blue and white designs
- Ottoman carpets and kilims featured geometric patterns and symbolic motifs
- Ceramic tiles used extensively in mosque and palace decoration
- Luxury textiles (silk brocades, velvets) produced for Ottoman court and export
Miniature painting
- Ottoman miniature painting developed a unique style distinct from Persian traditions
- Historical manuscripts (Şehname) depicted important events and sultans' lives
- Topographic paintings portrayed Ottoman cities and landscapes
- Siyah Kalem (Black Pen) technique used for depicting supernatural beings and dervishes
Sufism in Turkish culture
- Sufism played a central role in shaping Turkish Islamic spirituality and culture
- Sufi orders (tariqahs) influenced social, political, and artistic aspects of Turkish society
- Turkish Sufism developed distinctive practices and philosophies
Major Sufi orders
- order emphasized silent dhikr and strict adherence to Sharia
- order known for extended spiritual retreats and ascetic practices
- order practiced ecstatic rituals involving fire and sharp objects
- Bektashi order incorporated elements of Shi'ism and pre-Islamic Turkish beliefs
Mevlevi order and whirling dervishes
- Founded by followers of the poet in 13th century Konya
- (whirling) developed as a form of active meditation
- Mevlevi music and poetry integral to Turkish classical traditions
- Mevlevi lodges served as centers of culture and learning throughout Ottoman Empire
Sufi literature and poetry
- 's vernacular poetry popularized Sufi concepts among common people
- Divan literature incorporated Sufi themes and symbolism
- of Rumi considered a masterpiece of Sufi didactic poetry
- Sufi hagiographies (menakıbname) preserved stories of saints and miracles
Islamic law in Turkey
- Islamic law (Sharia) formed the basis of Ottoman legal system for centuries
- Gradual secularization and modernization efforts transformed Turkish legal landscape
- Tension between Islamic and secular legal principles persists in modern Turkey
Ottoman legal system
- Combination of Sharia law and sultanic decrees (kanun) governed Ottoman society
- Hanafi school of Islamic jurisprudence predominated in Ottoman territories
- Qadi courts administered justice at local levels
- Millet system allowed non-Muslim communities some legal autonomy
Tanzimat reforms
- Series of reforms (1839-1876) aimed to modernize Ottoman legal and administrative systems
- Introduction of secular courts alongside religious courts
- Adoption of European-style legal codes (penal, commercial, civil)
- Efforts to standardize and codify Islamic law ()
Secularization under Atatürk
- Abolition of caliphate and religious courts in 1924
- Adoption of Swiss Civil Code and other secular legal codes
- Principle of laicism (laiklik) enshrined in Turkish constitution
- (Presidency of Religious Affairs) established to manage religious affairs
Turkish Islamic festivals
- Islamic festivals in Turkey blend religious observances with local cultural traditions
- Celebrations reflect the importance of community and family in Turkish Islamic culture
- Festivals serve as occasions for spiritual renewal and social bonding
Ramadan traditions
- Iftar meals often elaborate affairs shared with family and friends
- Mahya illuminations (messages spelled out in lights between minarets) unique to Turkey
- Drummers (davulcu) wake people for pre-dawn suhoor meal
- Special Ramadan entertainment (shadow puppet shows, concerts) in public spaces
Eid celebrations
- Eid al-Fitr ( Bayramı) marks the end of Ramadan fasting
- Eid al-Adha () commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son
- Traditional foods (baklava, Turkish delight) prepared and shared with neighbors
- Children receive gifts and money () from elders
Mawlid observances
- Celebration of Prophet Muhammad's birthday ()
- Recitation of Süleyman Çelebi's Mevlid poem in mosques and homes
- Distribution of sweet sherbet and special breads (kandil simidi)
- Mawlid celebrations for other important Islamic figures (Rumi, Abdul Qadir Gilani)
Modern Turkish Islam
- Contemporary Turkish Islam navigates between secularism and religious identity
- Islamic movements and political parties play significant roles in modern Turkish society
- Ongoing debates about the place of Islam in public life and national identity
Secularism vs Islamic identity
- Kemalist ideology promoted strict separation of religion and state
- Resurgence of Islamic identity since 1980s challenges secular norms
- Headscarf controversy symbolized tensions between secularism and religious expression
- Debates over religious education and symbols in public spaces continue
Islamic political movements
- Emergence of Islamic-oriented political parties (Welfare Party, AKP)
- Concept of "conservative democracy" blends Islamic values with democratic principles
- Gülen movement's influence on education, media, and civil society
- Tensions between different Islamic groups and secularists shape political landscape
Contemporary Islamic scholarship
- Renewed interest in Ottoman Islamic intellectual traditions
- Development of "Turkish theology" emphasizing rationality and modernity
- Efforts to reconcile Islamic ethics with contemporary issues (bioethics, finance)
- Increased participation of women in Islamic scholarship and leadership roles
Turkish Islamic diaspora
- Large-scale Turkish migration to Europe began in 1960s as guest worker programs
- Turkish Muslim communities abroad maintain strong connections to homeland
- Diaspora experiences shape evolving interpretations of Turkish Islamic identity
Turkish Muslims in Europe
- Significant Turkish Muslim populations in Germany, Netherlands, and Austria
- Establishment of Turkish mosques and cultural centers in European cities
- Challenges of integration and maintaining religious practices in secular societies
- Development of distinct European Turkish Muslim identities
Cultural preservation abroad
- Turkish language schools and cultural programs for second and third generations
- Celebration of Turkish Islamic festivals in diaspora communities
- Importation of imams and religious teachers from Turkey
- Transnational marriages as means of maintaining cultural and religious ties
Transnational religious networks
- (Turkish-Islamic Union for Religious Affairs) operates mosques in Europe
- Sufi orders (Naqshbandi, Mevlevi) establish branches in diaspora communities
- Islamic organizations facilitate pilgrimage (Hajj) and charitable activities
- Social media and online platforms connect Turkish Muslims globally
Turkish Islamic education
- Islamic education in Turkey has undergone significant changes since Ottoman times
- Tension between religious and secular education systems persists
- Efforts to integrate Islamic knowledge with modern sciences and pedagogies
Traditional madrasas
- Ottoman madrasas provided comprehensive religious and scientific education
- Curriculum included Quranic studies, , fiqh, Arabic, and rational sciences
- Icazet system certified students' mastery of specific texts and subjects
- Decline of madrasa system in late Ottoman period due to modernization efforts
Modern Islamic schools
- Imam Hatip schools combine religious education with modern curriculum
- Establishment of theology faculties (İlahiyat Fakültesi) in Turkish universities
- Private Islamic schools and foundations offer alternative educational models
- Quranic courses ( Kursu) provide supplementary religious instruction
Religious instruction in public education
- Mandatory religion and ethics classes in Turkish public schools
- Debates over content and approach to religious education in secular system
- Efforts to promote religious pluralism and interfaith understanding in curricula
- Ongoing discussions about Alevi beliefs and practices in religious education
Key Terms to Review (34)
Battle of Talas: The Battle of Talas was a significant military confrontation in 751 CE between the Arab Abbasid Caliphate and the Chinese Tang Dynasty, marking a crucial point in the expansion of Islamic influence into Central Asia. This battle not only halted the advance of Chinese power westward but also facilitated the cultural and technological exchange between the Islamic world and East Asia, particularly through the spread of paper-making technology.
Bayram harçlığı: Bayram harçlığı refers to a traditional practice in Turkish Islamic culture where children receive money or gifts during the religious festival of Eid, known as Bayram. This custom is an expression of generosity and is intended to bring joy to children, reinforcing the sense of community and familial bonds during this significant time of celebration.
Bektashi: Bektashi is a Sufi order within Islam that emerged in the 13th century, known for its progressive interpretations of Islamic teachings and its embrace of mysticism. It plays a significant role in Turkish Islamic culture, emphasizing values such as tolerance, social justice, and the importance of inner spiritual experiences over strict adherence to traditional religious practices.
Calligraphy: Calligraphy is the artistic practice of handwriting and lettering that emphasizes expressive, decorative, and fluid forms. This art form holds a significant place in Islamic culture as it is often used to transcribe the Quran and convey messages of faith, beauty, and spirituality. It is closely associated with architecture, decorative arts, and regional styles, reflecting the aesthetic values of various cultures within the Islamic world.
DITIB: DITIB, or the Turkish-Islamic Union for Religious Affairs, is an organization established in Germany to represent and serve the interests of Turkish Muslims living in Europe. It plays a significant role in promoting Islamic teachings, providing religious education, and fostering cultural integration among Turkish communities in Germany and beyond.
Divan poetry: Divan poetry refers to a traditional form of Ottoman Turkish literature that emerged during the late medieval and early modern periods, characterized by its use of Persian and Arabic literary styles. It often revolves around themes of love, mysticism, and nature, showcasing the influence of Sufi thought and the complexities of human emotion within the context of Turkish Islamic culture.
Diyanet İşleri Başkanlığı: Diyanet İşleri Başkanlığı, or the Presidency of Religious Affairs, is a governmental body in Turkey responsible for overseeing religious affairs, particularly those related to Islam. It plays a crucial role in promoting and regulating religious practices, providing guidance to the Muslim community, and representing Turkey's Islamic interests both domestically and internationally.
Hadith: Hadith refers to the recorded sayings, actions, and approvals of the Prophet Muhammad, serving as a significant source of Islamic guidance alongside the Quran. These texts play a crucial role in shaping the beliefs and practices of the Muslim community, influencing everything from religious obligations to legal rulings.
Islamic Nationalism: Islamic nationalism is a political ideology that seeks to define and promote the identity, culture, and interests of Islamic peoples through a nationalist lens, often emphasizing the importance of Islam in the formation of national identity. This movement arose as a response to colonialism and Western influence, aiming to unify Muslim communities and revive their cultural heritage while asserting their political rights. The interplay between religious identity and nationalist sentiments has been significant in various contexts, shaping movements in regions like Turkey and South Asia, as well as influencing modern reform efforts within the Islamic world.
Karakhanids: The Karakhanids were a Turkic dynasty that ruled over parts of Central Asia, primarily from the 9th to the 13th centuries. They are known for their significant contributions to the development of Turkish Islamic culture, particularly through the establishment of cities, trade routes, and religious institutions that promoted Islam across the region.
Khalwati: Khalwati refers to a mystical practice within Sufism, specifically involving the retreat into solitude for meditation and prayer. This practice is significant in Turkish Islamic culture as it emphasizes personal connection with God, fostering spiritual growth and deepening one's faith through isolation and reflection.
Kuran: The Kuran, also known as the Quran, is the holy book of Islam, believed to be the word of God as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. It serves as the primary source of Islamic theology and law, guiding the moral and spiritual conduct of Muslims. In Turkish Islamic culture, the Kuran holds a central place in religious life, influencing literature, art, and societal norms.
Kurban bayramı: Kurban Bayramı, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, is an important Islamic holiday that commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. This festival is celebrated by Muslims around the world, particularly in Turkish Islamic culture, where it symbolizes charity, community, and faith through the ritual sacrifice of animals.
Mahyas: Mahyas are decorative light displays made from colored lamps, often used in Turkish Islamic culture, especially during Ramadan and other festive occasions. These elaborate illuminations serve not only as a means to beautify public spaces but also to create a sense of community and festivity among the people, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and traditions associated with Islamic celebrations.
Masnavi: Masnavi is a form of Persian poetry characterized by its rhymed couplets and is often used to express spiritual and mystical themes. This poetic structure became particularly significant in the context of Sufism, where it serves as a medium for conveying deep spiritual insights and experiences. The masnavi form is notable for its narrative quality, making it a popular choice for storytelling within Islamic literature, especially in Persian and Turkish contexts.
Mecelle: The Mecelle was a civil code introduced in the late 19th century during the Ottoman Empire, which aimed to modernize and unify the legal framework based on Islamic law, specifically the principles of Islamic jurisprudence. It served as a significant effort to codify various aspects of civil law, impacting areas such as family law, property rights, and contractual obligations while balancing traditional Islamic practices with modern legal needs.
Mevlevi Whirling: Mevlevi whirling is a form of physically active meditation practiced by the Mevlevi order, also known as the Whirling Dervishes, rooted in Sufism. This unique dance symbolizes the spiritual journey of the soul towards perfection, where the dancer spins in circles, embodying a mystical connection to the divine while achieving a trance-like state. It is an expression of love and devotion to God and reflects key aspects of Turkish Islamic culture, blending art, spirituality, and community.
Mevlid Kandili: Mevlid Kandili is a significant religious observance in the Islamic world that celebrates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. This night is marked by special prayers, recitations of poetry, and gatherings in mosques or homes to honor the life and teachings of Muhammad, reflecting deep spiritual and cultural importance within Turkish Islamic culture.
Naqshbandi: Naqshbandi is a prominent Sufi order within Islam, known for its emphasis on spiritual discipline, community engagement, and the practice of silent remembrance of God (dhikr). It traces its origins to the teachings of Baha-ud-Din Naqshband, who emphasized the importance of maintaining a deep connection with God through inner reflection and the remembrance of divine attributes. The Naqshbandi order became influential in Turkish Islamic culture, where it played a significant role in shaping spiritual practices and community structures.
Ottoman Architecture: Ottoman architecture refers to the distinctive architectural style that emerged during the Ottoman Empire, characterized by a blend of Islamic and Byzantine influences. This style is marked by grand structures, intricate designs, and the innovative use of space, especially in the construction of mosques, palaces, and public buildings, reflecting the empire's power and cultural sophistication.
Ottoman Empire: The Ottoman Empire was a vast and influential Islamic state that lasted from the late 13th century until the early 20th century, encompassing parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. It played a crucial role in shaping Islamic culture, architecture, and governance, influencing various aspects of life including art, charitable practices, and interactions with the West.
Ramazan: Ramazan, also known as Ramadan, is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and holds great significance for Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. It commemorates the month in which the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad, and during this time, Muslims observe a fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from food, drink, and other physical needs. The observance of Ramazan plays a crucial role in fostering spiritual growth, self-discipline, and empathy for the less fortunate within the context of Turkish Islamic culture.
Rifai: Rifai refers to a Sufi order that originated in the 12th century in the Islamic world, named after its founder, Ahmad al-Rifai. This order is known for its emphasis on mystical practices and deep spiritual connection to God, as well as its rituals that often include ecstatic dancing and chanting. The Rifai order has played a significant role in the cultural and spiritual life within Turkish Islamic culture, highlighting the blend of spirituality and social customs.
Rumi: Rumi was a 13th-century Persian poet, Islamic scholar, and Sufi mystic, known for his profound spiritual insights and lyrical poetry that expresses themes of love, divine connection, and the quest for truth. His works have greatly influenced Islamic mysticism, Persian literature, and Sufi poetry, leaving a lasting impact on both Islamic culture and world literature.
Seljuk Architecture: Seljuk architecture refers to the architectural style that emerged during the Seljuk Empire, which ruled much of the Middle East from the 11th to the 14th centuries. This style is characterized by its grand mosques, intricate tile work, and the use of large domes and arches, reflecting a blend of Persian, Byzantine, and Islamic influences.
Sema ceremony: The sema ceremony is a spiritual practice and ritual performed by the Whirling Dervishes, associated with Sufism in Turkey. It involves a unique form of dance where participants spin in a circular motion, symbolizing the spiritual journey towards God, transcending the physical world to connect with the divine. This mesmerizing ritual reflects important aspects of Turkish Islamic culture, including mysticism, devotion, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment.
Sufism: Sufism is a mystical Islamic belief system that emphasizes the inward search for God and the cultivation of spiritual closeness to the divine. This practice seeks to transcend the material world through personal experience, prayer, and devotion, significantly influencing various cultural, literary, and social aspects of the Islamic world.
Süleyman the Magnificent: Süleyman the Magnificent was the tenth and longest-reigning sultan of the Ottoman Empire, ruling from 1520 to 1566. Known for his military conquests, legal reforms, and cultural achievements, he significantly expanded the empire's territory and influence, cementing the Ottoman Empire's status as a dominant power in both Europe and the Islamic world. His reign is often seen as a golden age for the Ottomans, where art, architecture, and law flourished.
Tasawwuf: Tasawwuf, often referred to as Sufism, is the mystical and spiritual dimension of Islam that emphasizes personal experiences of the divine, self-purification, and the pursuit of a deeper understanding of God. It involves various practices such as meditation, chanting, and the remembrance of God (dhikr), aiming to cultivate a closer relationship with the divine. In the context of Turkish Islamic culture, tasawwuf has played a crucial role in shaping religious thought, social structures, and cultural expressions.
Turkish classical music: Turkish classical music is a genre of music that has its roots in the Ottoman court traditions and reflects the cultural and artistic expressions of the Turkish Islamic world. It combines elements from various musical influences, including Persian, Arabic, and Byzantine styles, creating a unique sound that features complex melodies and intricate rhythms. This genre often emphasizes poetry and storytelling, showcasing themes of love, nature, and spirituality within the context of Turkish Islamic culture.
Turkish War of Independence: The Turkish War of Independence was a military conflict fought between 1919 and 1923, leading to the establishment of modern Turkey as an independent nation-state. The war arose in response to the partitioning of the Ottoman Empire after World War I and the subsequent occupation of Anatolia by Allied forces, culminating in a nationalist movement spearheaded by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. This conflict not only solidified Turkish sovereignty but also played a crucial role in shaping the national identity and Islamic culture of Turkey.
Turkism: Turkism is a socio-political and cultural movement that emphasizes the unity, identity, and heritage of Turkish people, particularly in the context of the Ottoman Empire's transformation into modern Turkey. It promotes a sense of nationalism rooted in Turkish language, culture, and history, aiming to unify various Turkic peoples and foster pride in their shared identity. This movement played a significant role during the late 19th and early 20th centuries as part of broader nationalist movements within the Islamic world, especially as the Ottoman Empire began to decline.
Yasawiyya: Yasawiyya refers to a religious and cultural movement within Turkish Islamic culture, emphasizing the teachings of the mystical Sufi order known as Yasawi. This movement is rooted in the life and philosophy of Ahmad Yasawi, a 12th-century Turkic poet and Sufi mystic who promoted spiritual introspection and devotion to God. Yasawiyya has played a significant role in shaping Turkish identity and spirituality, merging elements of Islam with local customs and traditions.
Yunus Emre: Yunus Emre was a 13th-century Turkish poet and Sufi mystic known for his profound contributions to Turkish literature and Islamic thought. His works emphasize themes of love, spirituality, and the unity of humanity, often reflecting the principles of Sufism, which deeply influenced Turkish Islamic culture during his time and beyond.