Description
The study of Sunni sainthood (wilaya) has yielded substantial results, yet research mostly remains narrowly focused on particular beliefs or prominent figures, overlooking the broader sociological, political, and theological frameworks that underpin the concept. This leaves a gap for scholars to craft comprehensive definitions that support a systematic study of the impact of Sunni sainthood beliefs and practices. In the early modern era, particularly from the 16th to the early 20th century, Ottoman religious authorities, with their increasingly corporatized, bureaucratic, and centralized structure, deployed specific theological arguments to establish their legitimacy in matters of orthodoxy and shari’a law. They extended the medieval Sunni tradition by framing sainthood as a charismatic link to the Prophet, integrating it into their own self-representation and authority. My talk delves into the theological strategies of the Ottoman ulama that elevated sainthood as a tool of legitimacy, validation, and authority. Saints were often organized into historical and theological categories, which are not entirely reflected in current scholarship. By analyzing Arabic primary sources across the Ottoman Empire, this research aims to clarify the socio-historical dimensions of wilaya, suggesting that Sunni sainthood was a structured and purposeful phenomenon rather than the fragmented concept it appears to be in contemporary studies. This approach provides a more cohesive framework for understanding Sunni sainthood as an influential element in Ottoman religious and political life, opening pathways for more systematic historical research in this field.| Period | 22 Nov 2024 |
|---|---|
| Event title | Forschungszentrum Religion and Transformation - Studientag |
| Event type | Lecture series, colloquium |
| Location | Melk, AustriaShow on map |