The Munafihi Sect
The Munafihi is a sect that is strongly influenced by Pythagorean ideas. They believe in the metempsychosis, or the transmigration
The Sabiny Sect
The sect called Sabiny, though formally Mahometans, seems to differ greatly from other followers of Islam. While most Muslims take
Influence and Corruption of the Sect
These people were easily persuaded to give false testimony in favor of their sect, often ignoring fairness or reason. They
Historical Context of the Brcktajlj and Kid Kalya
In earlier times, particularly during the rule of Brcktajlj Dga$, Kid Kalya, Mahomet-dga, and others, certain groups engaged in rebellious
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
Soldiers of Mixed Belief
Among certain sects in the Ottoman Empire, there is a group of people who mix Christianity and Islam in unusual
Devotion and Religious Practice
Among certain religious sects in the Ottoman Empire, some followers spend entire nights bent toward the ground, reciting prayers and
The Spread of a Dangerous Doctrine
This poisonous doctrine has spread widely in Constantinople. It has reached even the Seraglio, the palace of the Sultan, and
Atheism in Constantinople
It is remarkable to consider how many people in Constantinople hold atheistic beliefs. Many of these are Kadizade scholars, who
Atheism Among the Turks
In this chapter, we will describe the various religions and sects among the Turks. It is not our main purpose