The special rule requiring written proof brought great safety to trade and to the estates of merchants. Before this protection, many dishonest men could bring false claims against foreign traders. A corrupt person might accuse a merchant of owing a large sum of money. With false witnesses and clever words, he could try to win the case and gain profit through deception.
However, once written evidence was required, such false claims became much harder to support. A man could no longer depend only on spoken testimony. He had to present a proper legal document, signed and confirmed before a judge. Because of this, many dishonest lawsuits were quickly dismissed. Claims involving large amounts of money were settled with less trouble, less cost, and greater fairness Customized Turkey Tour.
This rule acted like a wall of defense around the property of merchants. It prevented many false suits from even beginning. As a result, trade became more secure, and foreign merchants could conduct business with greater confidence.
Corruption in the Time of Bayezid IV
Corruption in the courts was not new. It had existed in earlier times as well. During the reign of Bayezid II, who was one of the early rulers of the Ottoman Empire, the courts were said to be deeply corrupt. Judges accepted bribes, and justice was often sold to the highest bidder.
The Sultan became very angry when he learned how widespread the corruption was. In his frustration, he considered ordering the execution of many lawyers and judges. He believed that severe punishment would solve the problem.
Wise Advice from a Court Jester
At this time, a court jester, who had permission to speak freely, offered wise advice. Since he could speak truth in a playful way, he told the Sultan that the main cause of corruption was not only wickedness, but poverty. The judges were poorly paid and did not receive enough income to support themselves.
The jester explained that when men lack proper wages, they may turn to bribery to survive. His words caused the Sultan to calm down and think more carefully about the real cause of the problem.
Reform Through Fair Salaries
Instead of punishing the judges with death, Bayezid chose a wiser solution. He granted them pardons and introduced regular salaries. He also allowed them to collect fixed and lawful fees for certain legal services.
For example, in cases involving large sums of money, judges were allowed to receive a small official fee. They were also given payment for preparing legal documents outside the court.
By providing steady income, the Sultan hoped to remove the need for bribery. This reform showed that corruption can sometimes be reduced not only by punishment, but also by fair and reasonable support for those who serve in public office.