Reporter: Jamilah

Graduate School Hall, UIN Online- In the caliphate of the Ottoman Empire, Islam was at the peak of its glory.  Turkish at that time firmly adhered to the Quran and the Hadith, including on matters dealing with morals and customs.

This was stated by Director of UIN’s Fethullah Gulen Chair Dr Ali Unsal in general lecturer “The Moral Values in Ottoman” which was held in Graduate School’s Hall, Tuesday (22/12).

Ali explained that some of the moral values that are adhered to were cleanliness, honesty, responsibility and decency. At that time, the people of the Ottoman Empire really took care of their personal hygiene. They implement in their daily life the hadith which noted that cleanliness is part of faith.

This is evidenced by the habits such as removing shoes before entering the house, not keeping animals in the house and separating room for shower and toilet. This was so much different from the European custom in which they took their baths irregularly.

“Cleanliness originated from Islam, and Muslims truly like cleanliness. We keep ourselves clean five times a day by doing ablutions before praying. This activity not only makes us clean physically but also spiritually,” he explained.

Ottoman Turks are very honest because since childhood, they were taught of Islamic morality based on Al-Quran and as-Sunnah. According to an account of a visitor who visited Turkey during the Caliphate of the Ottoman Empire, if there happened to be a wallet or money that was lying around, no one would have dared to take it. The wallet and the money would have been returned to its owner.

“If a person had been proven lying, his or her forehead would have been marked, so that the public know that he was liar,” he added.

At that time also, there are so many foundations dedicated to helping others and preserving the environment and animals. There was no discrimination, all groups even non Muslims were respected. In fact, travelers or tourists who came from outside Turkey were highly respected, which was shown by the existence of places that provide free lodging, food, and drink.

“I could conclude that under the leadership of the Ottoman Empire during the sixth century, harmony, security and diversity was well-maintained based on the morals of Islamic society which was implemented by all level of society. (elve/mila/elly)