Said Nursî, Kurdish theologian and scholar (b. 1878)

Said Nursi, known reverently by many as Bediüzzaman ("wonder of the age") or simply Üstad ("master"), was a pivotal Kurdish Sunni Muslim theologian whose profound insights continue to resonate globally. Born in 1877 and passing on March 23, 1960, his life's work culminated in the voluminous Risale-i Nur Collection, a comprehensive body of Qur'anic commentary spanning over six thousand pages.

Nursi, whose full name is often spelled Said-i Nursî or Said-i Kurdî, transcended his era with a forward-thinking vision. He firmly believed that modern science and logic were indispensable for the future, advocating for an integrated educational approach where religious sciences would be taught in secular institutions and, conversely, modern sciences would find a place in religious schools. This progressive stance aimed to bridge the perceived chasm between traditional religious understanding and contemporary scientific discovery, fostering a holistic intellectual and spiritual development.

The Birth and Impact of the Nurcu Movement

The philosophical and spiritual teachings of Said Nursi laid the groundwork for a dynamic religious movement that has profoundly influenced the revival of Islam, particularly in Turkey. Known as the "Nurcu movement" or "Nur cemaati," this community has grown exponentially, now boasting several millions of adherents worldwide. By 2008, estimates suggested the movement encompassed 5 to 6 million followers globally, with figures potentially reaching 9 million, sustained by approximately 5,500 "dershanes," or study halls, where believers collectively engage with Nursi's extensive writings.

A Mind of Remarkable Acuity

Beyond his theological genius and visionary advocacy, Said Nursi possessed an extraordinary intellectual gift: an eidetic memory. His ability to recall vast amounts of text from memory was legendary. One well-documented instance involves Molla Fethullah, who, upon encountering the young Nursi, sought to test this remarkable faculty. He presented Nursi with a copy of "Maqamat al-Hariri" by Al-Hariri of Basra, a work famous for its complexity. After reading just one page once, Nursi was able to perfectly recite it from memory, leaving Molla Fethullah utterly astounded. This feat underscored his unparalleled capacity for learning and retention, further cementing his status as a truly exceptional scholar and master.

Frequently Asked Questions About Said Nursi

Who was Said Nursi?

Said Nursi was a prominent Kurdish Sunni Muslim theologian, born in 1877, who authored the influential Risale-i Nur Collection, a multi-volume Qur'anic commentary. He is also known by honorifics like Bediüzzaman ("wonder of the age") and Üstad ("master").

What is the Risale-i Nur Collection?

The Risale-i Nur Collection is Said Nursi's magnum opus, comprising over six thousand pages of Qur'anic commentary. It integrates religious sciences with modern logic and science, serving as a cornerstone for his followers' studies.

What was Said Nursi's unique educational philosophy?

Nursi advocated for the integration of knowledge, believing that modern science and logic were crucial. He proposed teaching religious sciences in secular schools and modern sciences in religious schools, aiming for a comprehensive understanding of existence.

What is the Nurcu movement?

The Nurcu movement, or Nur cemaati, is a religious movement inspired by Said Nursi's teachings. It has played a significant role in the revival of Islam in Turkey and boasts millions of followers worldwide, gathering in "dershanes" to study Nursi's works.

How many followers does the Nurcu movement have?

As of a 2008 estimate, the Nurcu movement had between 5 to 6 million adherents globally, with some figures suggesting up to 9 million, actively participating in thousands of study halls.