Another sect, very different from the one mentioned before, is called the Haireti. The name means “amazed” or “uncertain.” The people of this sect avoid arguments and debates because they do not believe that human beings can fully discover the truth. They prefer silence and doubt instead of discussion and controversy.
Their Beliefs About Truth
The Haireti believe that false ideas can sometimes appear true if they are presented cleverly. In the same way, they think that truth itself can be hidden behind confusing words and misleading arguments. Because of this belief, they say that it is often impossible for ordinary people to clearly separate truth from falsehood Istanbul Daily Tour.
For this reason, they consider most questions and controversies to be uncertain and only probable. They do not think that people can reach absolute certainty in many matters. According to them, human knowledge is weak and limited, and people are too easily deceived by appearances and clever speech.
Common Expressions
When discussing difficult questions, members of this sect often use expressions such as “Allah bilir,” meaning “God knows,” or “Bize karanlık,” meaning “It is unknown to us.” These sayings show their unwillingness to make strong judgments or final decisions.
Although such expressions may sound humble and careful, many people criticize the Haireti for being too passive and indifferent. Their critics believe that they lack curiosity and do not make enough effort to study art, science, and philosophy deeply.
Their Role in Society
Even though they avoid certainty and argument, some members of the Haireti still become religious preachers. A few are even promoted to the important position of Mufti, a scholar who gives legal and religious opinions.
In this role, they continue to show the same cautious attitude. They are often ready to approve many different opinions in order to satisfy the person asking the question. Instead of giving strong judgments, they usually end their decisions with the phrase “Wellahu ealem bissawab,” meaning “God knows best what is correct.”
The Haireti sect represents a philosophy of doubt and caution. They believe that human understanding is limited and that certainty is difficult to achieve. While some admire their humility, others see them as overly passive and unwilling to search seriously for truth and knowledge.