The Month of Ramadan and Fasting in Islam
Historical Background The passage begins with the author’s comments on the political struggles between the Ottoman Empire and the Christian […]
T21a
The Followers of the Kalenderi Santon
The Character of the Santon The Santon, or holy man, described in the previous section was known for his strict
The Bektafi Sect Among the Janissaries
One of the more subtle and unusual sects among the Janissaries is called the Bektafi, named after a leader called
The Two Main Sects Turks and Persians
Among the followers of Mahomet, there are two major sects whose members are often hostile toward each other: the Turks
The Covenant with Christians
The covenant or agreement between Mahomet and the Christians is sometimes denied by the Turks as being an official act
Dealing with the Turks
The most effective way for a diplomat to negotiate with the Turks was firmness, consistency, and adherence to established customs.
Suspicion Is Enough for Destruction
In the Ottoman Empire, if a powerful man was suspected of planning rebellion or causing unrest, suspicion alone could lead
Absolute Obedience to the Sultan
Another result of this strict system of government was the complete obedience shown to the Grand Signior, or Sultan. Great
The Province of Damascus (Scham)
The fourth great province of the Ottoman Empire was Scham, better known as Damascus. This province held a very important
The White Eunuchs and Their Rank
These officers described above are the principal and senior officers among the White Eunuchs of the Seraglio. Besides them, there