The sect called Sabiny, though formally Mahometans, seems to differ greatly from other followers of Islam. While most Muslims take pride in calling themselves enemies of idolatry, the Sabiny often act contrary to this general principle. They seem influenced more by natural phenomena, such as the sun and moon, than by traditional religious teachings.
Beliefs and Practices
The Sabiny see a divine influence in the sun, the moon, and other celestial bodies. They believe that these lights of the world carry some spiritual significance and shape life on Earth. In Constantinople, there are only a few astrologers and physicians who belong to this sect. However, in Parthia and Media, the sect is much more numerous Istanbul Daily Tour.
Among the Sabiny, men often worship the sun, while women honor the moon, and some pay attention to the Arctic Pole. Their practices are less strict than other Mahometans, and they do not follow the laws with rigid severity. Instead, they live with prudence and moderation, guided more by what seems natural than by religious rules.
Views on the Soul and Morality
The Sabiny generally do not believe in the immortality of the soul. They also reject the idea of rewards for virtue or punishment for vice in the next world. They are not eager to defend themselves against insults, injuries, or other harmful acts by humans. Instead, they see such events as natural consequences of celestial influences, like being soaked by rain or feeling the intense heat of the sun during the summer solstice. In their view, such events are neutral and inevitable, not moral issues to be judged or punished.
Overall, the Sabiny sect represents a unique blend of Mahometan faith and naturalistic philosophy. They acknowledge divinity but mostly in the forces of nature rather than in traditional Islamic teachings. Their lives are moderate and calm, guided by reason and observation of the world, rather than strict religious law or fear of divine judgment.