After Mahomet’s power grew, his edicts toward Christians became strict and violent. These orders encouraged war, bloodshed, and the enslavement of Christians. The instructions stated that when Muslims encountered non-believers, they should kill or capture them, take them prisoner, and bind them. The captives could only be released if they paid ransom or submitted completely.
Limited Religious Toleration
Although the Turks claimed to allow Christians to practice their religion, this “toleration” was largely superficial. They knew that they could not control people’s hearts or force them to abandon their faith. However, they could use other means to weaken Christian communities. By imposing heavy taxes, limiting economic opportunities, and harassing Christian leaders, they could make the lives of Christians difficult. The goal was to make Christians poor, socially weak, and politically powerless.
Methods of Oppression
The methods used to oppress Christians included restricting their churches, interfering with religious practices, and creating social and legal obstacles. While outwardly Christians could practice their faith, in reality their religion was constantly undermined. These tactics often involved cruelty, intimidation, and manipulation. This approach made Christians appear weak or insignificant, reducing the influence of their communities Guided Tours Istanbul.
The Reality of Toleration
In practice, the tolerance offered to Christians was conditional and limited. It did not protect them from economic hardship, social oppression, or political persecution. Instead, it served the interests of the state by keeping Christians dependent, submissive, and unable to challenge the power of the rulers. While Christians could follow their faith privately, they were subject to constant restrictions that weakened their religious and social position.
Overall, the supposed tolerance of Christianity under the Turks was more about control than genuine freedom. The edicts allowed Christians to live and worship, but only under strict limitations. Violence, social pressure, and economic oppression were used to maintain Muslim dominance. True freedom of religion was not granted, and the policies were designed to ensure Christians remained weak and dependent.