The Kizilbash/Alevi communities have a rich history that remains largely unexplored, and this first comprehensive socio-political history of the group uses recently surfaced sources to provide fresh answers to many questions about their origins and evolution.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 31 January 2020
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

The Kizilbash, a pivotal force in the Ottoman-Safavid conflict that shaped the early modern Middle East, have a rich history that remains largely unexplored. Today known as Alevis, they form the second-largest faith community in modern Turkey and have smaller pockets in the Balkans. However, many aspects of their history remain shrouded in mystery. This comprehensive socio-political history of the Kizilbash/Alevi communities, drawing on recently discovered sources from their milieu, provides fresh insights into their origins and evolution from a revolutionary movement to a more introspective religious order.

The Kizilbash: Key Players in the Ottoman-Safavid Conflict

The Kizilbash, a group of religious and political dissidents, played a significant role in the Ottoman-Safavid conflict that defined the early modern Middle East. Originating in the late 16th century, the Kizilbash emerged as a revolutionary movement seeking to overthrow the Safavid dynasty and establish a new Islamic state. Their name, which translates to "Redheads," was derived from the distinctive red turbans they wore during their military campaigns. The Kizilbash's military prowess and strategic alliances with other regional powers, such as the Ottomans, allowed them to gain significant territory and influence in the region. However, their success was short-lived, and they were eventually defeated by the Safavid army in the early 17th century.

The Kizilbash/Alevi Communities Today

Today, the Kizilbash/Alevi communities are the second-largest faith community in modern Turkey, with smaller pockets of related groups in the Balkans. They are known for their unique religious practices, which blend elements of Islam, Christianity, and Zoroastrianism. The Kizilbash/Alevi communities emphasize the importance of personal spiritual growth and the pursuit of a direct relationship with God. They believe in the existence of a single divine being, known as the "One," who is the source of all creation.

Origins and Evolution of the Kizilbash/Alevi Communities

The origins and evolution of the Kizilbash/Alevi communities are complex and multifaceted. While their early history is shrouded in mystery, recent discoveries have shed light on their origins. According to some scholars, the Kizilbash/Alevi communities originated from a combination of religious and political factors. The Safavid dynasty's strict religious policies and the persecution of religious minorities, particularly the Alevis, led to the emergence of a resistance movement. The Kizilbash/Alevi communities emerged as a response to these oppressive conditions, seeking to establish a more inclusive and tolerant Islamic state.

Over time, the Kizilbash/Alevi communities evolved into a more introspective religious order. They developed a unique set of beliefs and practices that emphasized the importance of personal spiritual growth and the pursuit of a direct relationship with God. They also developed a system of governance that was based on democratic principles and the rule of law. However, their success was not without its challenges. The Kizilbash/Alevi communities faced discrimination and persecution from other Islamic groups, particularly the Sunni majority. This discrimination led to the formation of separate communities and the development of distinct religious practices.

The Kizilbash/Alevi Communities in Modern Turkey

In modern Turkey, the Kizilbash/Alevi communities face a number of challenges. Despite their significant population, they are often marginalized and discriminated against. They are not recognized as a separate religious group by the Turkish government, and their religious practices are often viewed as heretical. This discrimination has led to a sense of isolation and marginalization among the Kizilbash/Alevi communities.

However, there have been efforts to promote greater understanding and acceptance of the Kizilbash/Alevi communities in modern Turkey. The government has taken steps to recognize their religious practices and to provide them with access to education and healthcare. There have also been efforts to promote interfaith dialogue and to build bridges between different religious communities.

Conclusion

The Kizilbash/Alevi communities are a complex and multifaceted group with a rich history that remains largely unexplored. Their origins and evolution from a revolutionary movement to a more introspective religious order are complex and multifaceted. Despite their challenges, there have been efforts to promote greater understanding and acceptance of the Kizilbash/Alevi communities in modern Turkey. By recognizing their religious practices and providing them with access to education and healthcare, we can help to build a more inclusive and tolerant society.

Weight: 740g
Dimension: 162 x 242 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474432689