Fethullah Gülen

The Man, the Myth, the Coup: Fethullah Gülen's Rollercoaster Life!

Fethullah Gülen, once a powerful ally turned fierce rival of Erdogan, dies at 83—discover the incredible life of this controversial cleric!

Fethullah Gülen, the enigmatic U.S.-based Islamic cleric, passed away in a hospital on Sunday evening, sending ripples through the political waters of Turkey and beyond. He was 83 years old, having spent the last years of his life in self-imposed exile, having once been a powerful force in Turkish politics. Gülen rose from humble beginnings to become a driving force behind a global social movement, inspiring millions with his message of education, tolerance, and interfaith dialogue. However, his legacy is marred by accusations that he orchestrated a failed coup in 2016 aimed at unseating Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

Initially, Gülen and Erdoğan were allies, united by a vision of a modern, prosperous Turkey, but their relationship took a dramatic turn as Erdoğan consolidated power. Gülen's movement, known for its extensive network of schools and charitable organizations worldwide, became a target for Erdoğan’s government, which accused him of influencing the military and judiciary to execute plots against the state. This rift between the two not only reshaped Turkish politics but also led to an international atmosphere of tension as Erdoğan sought Gülen’s extradition from the United States, where he had lived since 1999.

Despite the political turmoil surrounding him, Gülen's influence extended far beyond Turkey. His teachings on tolerance and peace attracted followers across the globe, weaving a complex tapestry of interfaith dialogue and educational endeavors that emphasized unity and understanding. Nonetheless, the shadow of the coup attempt loomed large over his life, with many believing that his ideology and organization played a significant role in a series of events that forever changed Turkey’s political landscape.

As the dust settles on his passing, it is essential to reflect on the impact of Fethullah Gülen's work and ideas. Did you know that his followers claim to run around 1,000 schools across more than 160 countries? These institutions have educated over a million students, instilling values of harmony and understanding in a world often divided by strife. Even in death, Gülen remains a polarizing figure, representing both the possibilities of peaceful coexistence and the risks of political intrigue. As many mourn his loss, Turkey's complex narrative continues to unfold, solidifying Gülen's place in the annals of history.