Fethullah Gülen Dies In Pennsylvania

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Post on Oct 22, 2024

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Fethullah Gülen: A Life of Influence and Controversy Ends in Pennsylvania

Fethullah Gülen, the Turkish Islamic cleric who built a global network of schools and businesses, passed away on August 17, 2023, at the age of 85. His death comes after years of political tension and accusations of orchestrating the 2016 coup attempt in Turkey. Although Gülen himself maintained his innocence, his legacy will forever be intertwined with the events of that tumultuous summer.

From Teacher to Global Figure

Gülen's life was a fascinating mix of education, spirituality, and politics. Born in 1938, he began teaching in Turkey as a young man. Over time, he developed a philosophy emphasizing dialogue, education, and interfaith understanding. This message resonated with many, and he quickly gained a following both within Turkey and abroad. His supporters embraced his teachings, and Gülen's network of schools, known as Hizmet ("service" in Turkish), became a global phenomenon, spreading across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. His influence extended beyond the classroom, with Hizmet also building up businesses, media outlets, and even a strong presence in the world of technology.

From Ally to Enemy: The Turkish-Gülen Divide

Gülen's relationship with Turkey was complex and ever-evolving. Initially, he was seen as an ally, with the Turkish government supporting his educational initiatives. However, the relationship soured in the 2000s, as Gülen's growing influence and criticisms of Turkish politics started to irk the ruling elite.

The 2016 coup attempt proved to be the turning point. While Gülen denied any involvement, the Turkish government quickly blamed him, accusing him of orchestrating the plot. This led to a massive crackdown on Gülen's followers within Turkey, and accusations of a "parallel state" within the government.

Gülen himself was already living in self-imposed exile in Pennsylvania, where he sought asylum from Turkish authorities. His life in the US was far from the limelight of his heyday, with his public pronouncements dwindling and his influence waning.

A Legacy of Controversy

Fethullah Gülen's death has left behind a complex legacy. His followers view him as a spiritual leader who championed education and interfaith dialogue. Opponents see him as a mastermind who used his network to undermine Turkish democracy.

His death will likely be met with mixed reactions, with some celebrating his passing and others mourning the loss of a revered leader. But one thing is clear: the story of Fethullah Gülen is far from over, and his impact on Turkey and the world will continue to be debated for years to come.