Introduction to Nurculuk
Nurculuk (Turkish: Nurculuk) is a modern Turkish religious movement named after its founder, Bediuzzaman Said al-Nursi (1877-1960). The movement emerged in response to the socio-political and cultural challenges faced by Muslims in the late nineteenth-century Ottoman Empire.
Etymology and Translations
The term “Nurculuk” comes from the Turkish word nur (Arabic: نور), meaning “light.” Translated to “Nur Movement,” it signifies an emphasis on spiritual enlightenment. In Arabic, it is referred to as Harakatul Nur (حركة النور).
Historical Background
At a time when the Ottoman administration differentiated between the more developed and Westernized regions of Anatolia and the Balkans from the comparatively underdeveloped Kurdish areas, Nursi proposed a solution to this cultural division. His vision was to promulgate an Islam that incorporated the advantages of Western technology while maintaining the integrity of the faith.
Core Beliefs and Practices
Nurculuk centers around the teachings of Said al-Nursi, especially his Risale-i Nur (“Epistles of Light”). This collection of writings emphasizes a faith that is both logically coherent and scientifically compatible.
Key beliefs of Nurculuk include:
- Unity of Muslims: Advocating for a unified Islamic identity that transcends ethnic and regional divisions.
- Education: Emphasizing modern education and technological advancement alongside traditional Islamic teachings.
- Print and Publication: The movement is prolific in publishing Nursi’s works and spreading his teachings through various media channels, especially the newspaper Yeni Asya.
Influence and Modern-Day Impact
Nurculuk has gained a significant following among educated and urbanized populations in Turkey and beyond. It profoundly influences contemporary Turkish Islam and extends to educational, humanitarian, and cultural initiatives. Various Nur organizations are active globally, continuing to propagate Bediuzzaman’s philosophy of synthesizing faith with reason and progress.
Further Studies
For those interested in a deeper understanding of Nurculuk, the following books are recommended:
- “Risale-i Nur Kulliyati” by Bediuzzaman Said al-Nursi: The collection of epistles by the movement’s founder.
- “Faith and Reason: The Intersection of Philosophy and Theology in ‘Risale-i Nur’” by Ibrahim M. Abu-Rabi’: Explores the philosophical underpinnings of the Nur movement.
- “Said Nursi and the Nur Movement in Turkey: A Brief History” by Sukran Vahide: Offers historical context and development of the movement.
- “Tale of an Exile” by Yavuz Unal: A biographical account of Said al-Nursi’s life and teachings.
Conclusion
Takeaways:
- Nurculuk is a Turkish religious movement aiming to harmonize Islamic faith with modern scientific advancements.
- Founded by Bediuzzaman Said al-Nursi, it focuses on educational and spiritual enlightenment.
- The movement has a significant socio-cultural impact, particularly in Turkey, emphasizing unity, modern education, and extensive publication of religious texts.
In summary, Nurculuk exemplifies a dynamic approach within Islamic thought that bridges tradition with modernity, striving for a coherent and compelling religious practice that addresses contemporary challenges.
