In the Ottoman Empire, the education of young men in the Seraglio (the royal palace) was carefully organized to prepare those who would serve in the highest offices of the state. The Sultan preferred to select men whom he could raise without fear of envy and remove without danger. This principle ensured that the rulers had loyal and capable servants who could be trusted with the affairs of the empire.
Choosing the Right Men
A wise prince does not rely on chance or luck to fill important positions. He does not promote people simply because of their wealth, nobility, or flattery. Instead, he chooses men based on their talent, virtue, diligence, and ability to serve the state. This careful selection ensures that the empire benefits from the service of capable officials who can enhance the honor of the Sultan and the welfare of the country. Men chosen this way are like fruitful hills, producing results and value, rather than barren mountains, tall but useless Daily Ephesus Tours.
Registers and Records
Some wise rulers and ministers in history kept rolls or registers of the most skilled and virtuous men in the empire. These lists included details of their family, education, character, and achievements, allowing the ruler to select the right person for any office when a vacancy arose. By keeping careful records, the prince could make informed decisions about who to promote, avoiding mistakes that could harm the state.
Practical Benefits of Education
Education in the Seraglio was designed not only to teach military and administrative skills but also to instill loyalty, discipline, and knowledge of the law and religion. Young men were trained so that when they rose to office, they could manage the empire wisely and fairly. This system gave the Sultan a reliable body of servants and officials and ensured that the empire’s leadership remained competent and loyal.
The Ottoman system of selecting and educating men for government shows the importance of careful planning, merit, and loyalty in state service. By educating youth and choosing capable men, the empire maintained stability and effectiveness in governance, avoiding the risks of unqualified or self-interested officials.