Republic

Fethullah Gülen: Republic

Republic means rule based on people’s election and consultation. The first book to teach this principal fully is the Qur’an. Saying that republican rule is contrary to the Qur’an, if done without purposeful bad intentions, shows a lack of knowledge. Supporting the republic but refusing to see its source is just plain stubbornness and ignorance.

* * *

The Prophet, upon him be peace and blessings, did not claim kingship, and his four immediate political successors followed his example. Kingship appeared when people grew remote from the Islamic spirit, and eventually this digression became a vehicle for oppression and despotism.

* * *

Based on true freedom and justice, a true republic is a noble and safe form of rule. However, it is also an extremely vulnerable system. If this aspect is not considered properly, transgression and anarchy will appear and grow in its heart.

* * *

A true republic is a form of rule by elevated spirits and is the most suitable for humanity’s honor. For immature spirits and those with no understanding of the ways to human perfection, it is only a mirage or like a temporary bower that offers no shelter.

* * *

The republic can be the mother or governess of freedom, for it nurtures and raises the generations in love with freedom. It is a government of freedom, virtue, and morality, and not a rule of “loose” freedom.

* * *

The republic provides a foundation for us to be elevated with uplifting values. Later it leaves us alone with our elevated morality and alert conscience. Finally recognizing ourselves as human beings with will power, we always think good and virtuous thoughts and follow high human values at home and at work.

* * *

As our spirit, which has an innate desire for freedom, rejects all forms of domination, it reacts to any limits to be placed on its freedom of thought, behavior, and expression. For this reason, while a republican government allows individuals broad rights and freedoms on the one hand, it must, on the other, educate them as people of elevated morality and virtue, and sound thinking and strong will.

* * *

The republic is obligated to protect its citizens’ religious faith, feelings and thoughts. If it does not do so, but rather holds people in contempt because of their religious feelings and thoughts, violates their rights, and taints their good names, in reality it is holding the republic in contempt and violating all that it represents.

* * *

The republic needs people who fully identify with its principles. Its governing body should be dignified and wise, and its works should be fair and just.

Pin It
  • Created on .
Copyright © 2024 Fethullah Gülen's Official Web Site. Blue Dome Press. All Rights Reserved.
fgulen.com is the offical source on the renowned Turkish scholar and intellectual Fethullah Gülen.