Fethullah Gülen Passes Away: The Legacy of a Controversial Cleric
Fethullah Gülen, the enigmatic Islamic cleric whose teachings affected millions globally, has died at the age of 82. The Alliance for Shared Values, a New York-based organization representing his movement, confirmed that he passed away due to natural causes over the weekend at a hospital near his secluded residence in Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains. Coroner Thomas Yanac Jr. noted that Gülen had been in declining health for some time.
Gülen was a prominent figure known for developing a global social movement centered on education, democracy, and interfaith dialogue—a philosophy that intricately woven Sufism, a mystical Islamic tradition, with these ideals. Despite residing in self-imposed exile in the United States for over two decades, his influence extended across continents, resulting in a vast network of followers dedicated to his teachings.
Though once an ally of Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Gülen’s relationship with the Turkish government soured dramatically. Erdoğan accused him of orchestrating the failed coup on July 15, 2016, a claim Gülen vehemently denied. This coup attempt led to significant violence, claiming 251 lives, with Erdoğan’s government subsequently launching widespread purges that targeted anyone suspected of being affiliated with Gülen’s Hizmet movement. Thousands were arrested, and many institutions connected to Gülen were closed or seized.
In response to his passing, Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated that Gülen’s death does not diminish the threat posed by his movement, urging former followers to renounce their allegiance to what he described as a "treasonous" organization. The Turkish government continues to treat Gülen’s movement as a terrorist group despite his insistence on peace and tolerance, showcasing the lingering tensions surrounding his legacy.
Born in Erzurum, Turkey, on April 27, 1941, though disputed to be as early as 1938, Gülen began his journey as an imam, advocating for dialogue and tolerance among faiths. His movement gained traction in Turkey, becoming influential in various sectors, including media and education, and establishing a significant presence in over 100 countries, including approximately 150 charter schools in the United States.
His ideological shift toward aligning with Erdoğan’s government played a critical role in Gülen’s rise but also contributed to his dramatic fall from favor. After confronting government corruption and authoritarianism, the once-formidable partnership disintegrated, leading to allegations of infiltration and the rise of political discord.
Gülen had remained out of the political limelight in recent years, choosing to focus on spirituality and personal health while being advised by close associates to carry on his mission. Following his passing, empathy has poured in from diverse quarters, including those in his movement who view Gülen as an inspirational figure. As the world reflects on Gülen’s legacy, the intricacies of his philosophy coupled with the polarized dynamics he navigated in Turkey continue to be debated.
Although he never returned to Turkey after seeking medical care in the U.S. in 1999, Gülen’s impact—characterized by a blend of Islamic values and democratic ideals—will undoubtedly resonate globally, influencing both followers and critics alike for generations. Even in death, his complex legacy elicits strong reactions, marking a significant juncture in contemporary Islamic discourse.
