The Sultan and the Scholar: A Tale of Power and Piety in the Ottoman Empire

Once upon a time, there was a great sultan named Süleyman, who ruled over a vast and glorious empire. He was a brave and wise leader, who conquered many lands and peoples and made his empire the most powerful in the world. He was also a generous and cultured patron, who built magnificent mosques and palaces and supported the poets and artists of his time.

But not everyone was happy with Süleyman’s rule. There was a scholar named Birgili, who lived in a small town near the sea. He was a devout and learned man, who studied and taught the sacred law and tradition of Islam. He was also a pious and outspoken preacher, who criticized the sultan and his court for their secularism and corruption.

Birgili wrote many books and letters, in which he denounced Süleyman for neglecting his religious duties and laws and for being influenced by the Western culture and values. He also blamed him for the moral decay and social injustice that he saw in the Ottoman society and state. He urged the sultan to repent and reform his ways and to follow the Sunna or the example of the Prophet Muhammad.

Süleyman was annoyed by Birgili’s criticism and tried to silence him by various means. He sent him away from Istanbul, confiscated his books, and even plotted to kill him. But Birgili had many supporters and admirers among the scholars and the public, who protected him and spread his ideas. The sultan also respected Birgili’s learning and piety and did not dare to harm him openly.

Thus, the conflict between Süleyman and Birgili continued until their deaths. They both left behind a legacy of greatness and controversy that shaped the history of the Ottoman Empire.