When the Prime Vizier went to the Divan, which was a chamber inside the Seraglio palace, he was accompanied by a large group of attendants. Among them were many Çavuşes and their chief commanders. These men served as official messengers, guards, and ceremonial officers. Their duty was not to govern but to escort and honor the Prime Vizier during public appearances.
Some of these attendants were known as Mutafaraka, officers who served as escorts and ceremonial guards. In modern terms, they can be compared to sergeants or tipstaffs, whose role was to maintain order and represent authority.
Public Salutations and Ceremonial Honor
As the Prime Vizier dismounted from his horse and entered the Divan, or when he returned to his residence afterward, his attendants raised their voices loudly. They offered prayers for his happiness, long life, and success. These public blessings were meant to show respect and loyalty to the highest officer of the empire Private Istanbul Tour.
This custom was similar to the practices of the Roman soldiers, who used to salute their emperors with prayers for prosperity and good fortune. Such ceremonies reinforced the dignity of the Prime Vizier and reminded everyone present of his elevated status.
Judicial Authority in the Divan
Once seated on the bench, the Prime Vizier oversaw the proceedings of the Divan. All legal cases were first presented to the Kadıasker (also known as the Caddeelefcheer), who was the Lord Chief Justice of the empire. He examined the cases and issued judgments according to the law.
However, the Prime Vizier held supreme authority. If he believed that a case was important enough for his personal attention, or if he disagreed with the judge’s decision, he could intervene. By the power given to him by the Sultan, he was able to reverse a verdict and decide the case according to his own judgment. This showed the extent of his authority within the Ottoman legal system.
Dress and Appearance in the Divan
All officers attending the Divan wore a special and unusual head covering known in Turkish as Mücevveze. This distinctive dress marked their official rank and separated them from ordinary people. It was an important symbol of office and tradition, and its unique shape made it easily recognizable.
Purpose of This Description
This brief explanation is sufficient to understand the role of the Divan in relation to the office of the Prime Vizier. The Divan itself will not be discussed in greater detail here, as the purpose of this account is mainly to clarify the authority, duties, and ceremonial importance of the Prime Vizier.