Akhısm Shaped in Anatolıan Geography with Yassawıdısm and Futuwwa Instıtutıon

Abstract

Hodja Ahmet Yesevî, the revered spiritual figure of the Turkistan region, has had a profound influence on the spiritual life of the Turkish people. As clearly evident in his wise sayings or poems, Ahmet Yesevî did not exclude Turkish culture but rather advised adherence to Islamic principles as much as possible. His legacy was carried into the Anatolian region through the saints of Khorasan. Under the patronage of the Abbasid Caliph, the futuwwa institution gained an official identity, and Ahi Evran, who had received a sound education in Baghdad, integrated it with the Akhism system. Like other Horasan erenleri, Ahi Evran is observed to have adopted the Yesevî doctrine as a guiding principle. Akhism, which strongly embodies traces of Turkish culture, opened its doors to individuals devoted to futuwwa and established specific regulations for those aspiring to become ahis (members of the Akhism system). In the first half of the 13th century, the Anatolian Seljuk State, which was engaged in battles against the Byzantine Empire and the Mongols, structured its economic life with the support of the Akhism institution. The Akhis, when necessary, fought heroically and did not refrain from becoming martyrs while resisting oppression. In this study, alongside primary sources, research works have been examined to explore how the Akhism institution took shape in Anatolia, its origins, and its impact on both the state and society. The research highlights that Akhism was not merely an economic structure but also a system that preserved the cultural and moral values of the community. Methodologically, historical sources, authored research works, and a literature review approach have been employed to analyze the role of Akhism in Anatolia. The discussion section demonstrates that Akhism was not only influential in the realm of trade but also played a significant role in shaping the social structure of the state. In this context, the relationship of Akhism with Yesevism and Futuwwa has also been examined in a comprehensive manner. In conclusion, Akhism significantly contributed to the foundation of the Ottoman Empire, establishing the rules of commerce and professional ethics while leaving a lasting imprint on Anatolia.