Published April 4, 2026 | Version v1

THE ROLE OF THE YASAWIYA DOCTRINE IN THE SPIRITUALITY OF THE TURKIC PEOPLES

  • 1. Master's student at Asia International University Scientific supervisor
  • 2. Ph.D., Senior Research Fellow, Asia International University

Description

The Yasawiya doctrine, founded by Ahmad Yasawi in the 12th century, represents a significant spiritual and cultural phenomenon in the history of Turkic peoples. This study explores the role of the Yasawiya tradition in shaping the religious consciousness, ethical values, and cultural identity of Turkic societies. By analyzing contemporary scholarly literature and historical interpretations, the research highlights the adaptive nature of the Yasawiya order, which facilitated the integration of Islamic principles with pre-Islamic Turkic traditions. The use of the Turkic language in hikmet poetry contributed to the accessibility and widespread acceptance of its teachings among nomadic and semi-nomadic populations. The findings indicate that the Yasawiya doctrine played an essential role in the Islamization of Central Asia, while also influencing social norms, communal cohesion, and literary development. In the modern context, the Yasawiya legacy continues to serve as an important source of spiritual and cultural identity among Turkic peoples, reflecting its enduring relevance.

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