OSMANLI SOSYAL HAYATINDA MOLLALAR: 18. VE 19. YY. DİYARBEKİR ÖRNEĞİ.

The expression mullah was used as a scientific title both before and during Ottoman rule; and it is possible that it might refer to various groups within this context. In this study, which was prepared based on court records of XVIII and XIX century Diyarbekir (Amid), it turned out that the madrasah graduates in general were called as mullahs during the abovementioned period Diyarbekir. In the study, it was established that mullahs were mentioned intensionally and markedly in the court records of the time. It can be said that not only the interest given to madrasah education but also great respect and value appraised for mullahs by the community played important role in emergence of the result. That the mullahs did not interfere in almost any crime events during that time points out that they, in general, led a life style in line with respect and value appraised by the society. This is valid for nearly all mullahs who conducted religious and educational services and who were in the professions of trades and craftsmen. Although 31.6% of the mullahs were engaged in trades and craftsmanship, this result reflects the fact that success of madrasah institutions improved the quality of individuals and community. This study, based on records, demonstrates that mullahs in all professional groups, including tradesmen and artisans, played a role of improving and bettering community life, and that they achieved a serious respect throughout the society, and that they led a life style that was compatible with this respect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]