Opposition from Religious Authorities
Despite its influence, the Bektashi order was strongly criticized by a group of strict religious scholars known as the Kadizadelis. They considered this order unacceptable and harmful to true religion.
One of their main criticisms was that Haji Bektash allowed his followers freedom in religious practice. In particular, he did not force them to strictly follow fixed prayer times. This flexibility was seen by critics as carelessness and weak discipline.
Because of this freedom, some people believed that the Janissaries, who were connected to the order, became less serious about their religious duties. They were often described as soldiers who were not very strict or devoted in their prayers Istanbul Day Trip.
Views on Faith and Belief
Some songs and sayings attributed to Haji Bektash include the idea that no one has truly seen God, and therefore no one can fully know Him. This idea was interpreted in different ways by different groups.
Strict religious scholars disagreed with such teachings and saw them as dangerous or misleading.
Because of these beliefs, many conservative Muslims called the Janissaries “kafir” or unbelievers. This was a strong accusation meaning that they were considered to be outside true faith.
Religious Legal Opinion (Fatwa)
A famous religious scholar and mufti named Ebussuud was once asked a legal question. The question was whether a Muslim would be punished if he called a Janissary an unbeliever.
The mufti answered that the real problem was deeper: anyone who considers a Janissary to be a true believer is himself acting incorrectly according to strict religious law. This shows how controversial the Janissaries and their religious associations were.
Bektashi Presence in Public Life
Members of the Bektashi order often appeared in public ceremonies and military parades. They were sometimes seen near the Janissary commander, known as the Janissary Agha.
During these events, they would shout the word “Hu” repeatedly, meaning “He (God) lives,” while sometimes carrying drawn daggers as part of their symbolic presence.
Criticism of Their Behavior
The author describes some members of the order in a very negative way, accusing them of immoral behavior and corruption. These claims reflect the strong bias of some historical writers and religious opponents.
Because of their close relationship with the Janissaries, the Bektashi order grew very large and influential. However, critics believed that this growth also increased moral problems within the military system.
Attempts at Reform
Some authorities tried to reduce the influence of the order and reform the military system. They saw the spread of these practices as a kind of “disease” affecting discipline in the army.
However, the process of reform was slow and difficult, and the influence of the Bektashi order continued for a long time.