The Transformation of Muslim Mystical Thought in the Ottoman Empire

Abstract

One of more poorly understood aspects of the history of the Ottoman Empire has been the flourishing of Sufi mysticism under its auspices. This study tracks the evolution of the Halvetî order from its modest origins in medieval Azerbaijan to the emergence of its influential Sa'bâniyye branch, whose range extended throughout the Empire at the height of its expansion. By carefully reconstructing the lives of formerly obscure figures in the history of the order, a complex picture emerges of the connections of Halvetî groups with the Ottoman state and society. Even more importantly, since the Sa'bâniyye branch of the order grew out of the towns and villages of the northern Anatolian mountains rather than the major urban centres, this work has the added benefit of bringing a unique perspective to how Ottoman subjects lived, worked and worshipped outside the major urban centres of the Empire. Along the way, it sheds light on less-visible actors in society, such as women and artisans, and challenges widely held generalisations about the activities and strategies of Ottoman mystics. Based almost entirely on unpublished manuscripts, this study of the Halvetî order gives insights into historical primary sources whilst allowing Ottoman subjects to speak in their own words.

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