Authority Above Punishment, Not Above Order
The saying “Et si legibus solutissimus, tamen legibus vivimus” means this: although princes are freed from punishment by law, they must still live according to the law. In every government, there must be a supreme ruler, and for this reason kings and emperors are not subject to legal correction or judgment by any earthly power. No court or authority can call them to account for their mistakes or wrong actions in this world.
Yet, even though princes are above punishment, it is still necessary for the existence of an absolute monarchy that the ruler be a strict and careful executor of the laws. In truth, it is more in the ruler’s own interest and safety to govern by law than to rule without any limits. Absolute power should not be used at all times. It should be applied like medicine—only when ordinary remedies fail, and when serious disorder threatens the health of the state Sightseeing Sofia.
Absolute Power as a Rare Remedy
To rule only by force and command, without rule or measure, is dangerous even for the ruler himself. Law provides stability, obedience, and respect. When laws are followed, the ruler gains security. When laws are ignored, fear and resentment grow. Therefore, wisdom requires that absolute authority be used sparingly and only when necessary, just as a physician uses strong medicine only when mild treatment cannot cure the illness.
The Emperor and Sacred Custom
The Grand Signior, or Ottoman Emperor, is also bound by laws and customs, though this does not weaken his absolute authority. One important example appears when a new Emperor ascends the throne. By tradition, he is led with great ceremony and public celebration to a place outside Constantinople called Eyüp.
There stands an ancient monument of a prophet or holy man, whom the Turks, through confusion of history and lack of proper knowledge, identify as Job. Job is known in Scripture as a model of patience and endurance. However, Turkish tradition mixes times and persons, claiming that Job was a judge in the court of Solomon and that Alexander the Great was the commander of Solomon’s army.
Tradition Over Historical Accuracy
These errors show how history and chronology are often confused. Yet the ceremony itself has meaning. It reminds the Emperor that, although his power is supreme, he is expected to rule with justice, patience, and restraint. In this way, even an absolute monarch is guided—if not restrained—by law, custom, and tradition.