Abstract:

Sayyid Abdullah Cemaleddin was the Egyptian judge of the Ottoman Empire between 1891-1901. In his time, members of the Ulema class didn’t write much about political beliefs. He wanted to make a contribution to political science on behalf of Muslims, especially by getting interested in this field. Most of the late Ottoman scholars are in favor of the constitutional government. Cemaleddin Efendi, who died before the proclamation of the Constitutional Monarchy, insisted on consultation, although he was not a supporter of the constitutional monarchy. His approach to political issues is flexible. He argues that unless the limits set by the Shariah are violated, different judicial decisions are possible. He says that, about any political issue, one can act according to time and conditions. Nevertheless, his idea of the designation of the head of state is more or less the same as the common view of the classical period. Islamic law attaches great importance to the committee called "ehlü'l-hal ve'l-akd", which has the power to elect the head of state and dismiss him when it is necessary. While emphasizing the oath of allegiance of the members of ahlü'l-hal ve'l-akd in the election of the caliph/head of state, he considers that it is necessary for all Muslims to participate in the oath of allegiance. According to Cemaleddin Efendi, state affairs should be entrusted to people who are reliable, fair, straightforward, and who have the power, knowledge and ability to do their job. The quality of the Islamic Ummah as an ideal nation that acts in line with the principles of justice, equality, consultation and freedom should be preserved. Cemaleddin Efendi is in favor of a consultative and multi-participant administrative system in state affairs which requires different opinions and precautions. He strongly criticizes tyranny in state administration and, when necessary, warns the administrators who practice tyranny by abandoning consultation.