A Hidden Legacy Among Prohibitions
The teachings and community associated with Hacı Bektaş-ı Velî have endured various periods of oppression within the Ottoman Empire for many years. While the era of II. Mahmud intensified these pressures, a period of relief followed with the Tanzimat Edict. During this time, the principle of freedom of religion and sect offered an environment of tolerance to Sufi orders, and the restoration and return of the Hacıbektaş lodge to the Alevi community was a significant step. However, it appears that the support of high-level state administration also played a major role behind this tolerance.
Dissimulation (Taqiyya) and a New Awakening
With Abdülaziz’s ascension to the throne, the Alevi community gained more freedom, and steps were taken to reopen tekkes (Sufi lodges). The Sultan’s interest in this matter changed the appearance and approach of Bektaşi Islam. During this period, Bektaşi thinkers resorted to the method of dissimulation (taqiyya) to ensure their existence among other Sufi orders. From the second half of the 19th century onwards, various works were written, and these writings revealed efforts to align with the Sunni tradition. This situation led to the transformation of Alevi thought by the restrictions imposed by bans and a search for new interpretations.
Traces of History in the Velayetname
One of the important works that emerged during this period is the metered (manzum) Hacı Bektaş-ı Veli Velayetnamesi written by Ali Nihanî. The work conveys the life, teachings, and influences of Hacıbektaş-ı Velî with a comprehensive narrative consisting of 5920 couplets. The Velayetname covers a broad time span from Hacıbektaş-ı Velî’s childhood, his relationship with Ahmed Yesevî, to his connections with the Rum erenler (mystical helpers) upon his arrival in Anatolia, and up until his death. This work has contributed to the revival of Alevi thought and has reached us as an important document reflecting the political and religious atmosphere of the era.