The Ideology of Ottomanism and Symbols of Power During the Reign of Sultan Suleiman I

Abstract

The article examines the symbols of power and ideological guidelines of Ottomanism, formed by Sultan Suleiman I, which later became the basis for the existence of the empire for many years. The Ottoman symbols of power were based on ancient traditions and Islamic values. The Sultan, endowed with power from Allah, had a strong influence on the subjects of the empire, and the symbols of power only strengthened the power of the emperor in the eyes of the people. The authors analyze the symbols of power during the reign of Sultan Suleiman I. They highlight visual symbols such as the tugra and the Venetian helmet of the Sultan and traditional ceremonies: The enthronement ceremony, the ceremony of "Girding the Sword" and «Cuma selamlığı» ceremony. Particular attention is paid to the origin of traditional Ottoman ceremonies, their stages and symbolism. The conclusion drawn in this article is that the symbolism in the Ottoman Empire during the reign of Sultan Suleiman I reflected ideological guidelines and was the regulator of the sultan's relations with his subjects. Within the framework of the new imperial history, the analysis and study of symbols of power provides an opportunity to take a fresh look at the relationship between the sultan and the subjects of the empire.