Fethullah Gülen, Influential Turkish Spiritual Leader, Dies in US Exile

Turkish Muslim scholar, preacher, and leader of the Gülen movement, Fethullah Gülen, has passed away at the age of 83 in the United States, where he had been living in self-exile since 1999.

A Life of Activism and Controversy

Gülen was a complex figure who inspired a global social movement, promoting interfaith dialogue, education, and democracy. However, he also faced unproven accusations of masterminding a failed 2016 coup against Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. This allegation led to a significant deterioration in his relationship with Erdoğan, who was once a key ally.

Throughout his life, Gülen was a prolific writer, poet, and social critic. His Nursian theological perspective emphasized the importance of embracing democratic modernity, and he became a prominent voice in promoting moderate Islam. As a local state imam from 1959 to 1981, Gülen gained a significant following in Turkey and eventually became a centrist political figure in the country.

A Turn in Gülen's Relationship with Erdoğan

The relationship between Gülen and Erdoğan, which was once instrumental in helping the latter build and cement his power in Turkey, took a dramatic turn in 2016. After the failed coup attempt, Erdoğan accused Gülen of orchestrating the uprising from his base in the United States. These allegations led to Gülen's denaturalization by the Turkish government in 2017.

Despite the controversy surrounding his name, Gülen's passing has been met with an outpouring of grief from his followers and supporters. Family, friends, and admirers have gathered to pay their respects to the influential Turkish spiritual leader and Islamic scholar.

A Legacy Marked by Conflict and Controversy

Gülen's legacy is complex and multifaceted, marked by both his contributions to education, interfaith dialogue, and democracy, as well as the controversy surrounding his alleged involvement in the 2016 coup attempt. While his followers remember him as a visionary leader who inspired a global social movement, his critics view him as a power-hungry individual who sought to undermine the Turkish government.

As news of Gülen's passing spreads, the world is left to grapple with the nuances of his legacy. One thing is certain, however: Fethullah Gülen was a figure who left an indelible mark on the world, and his influence will continue to be felt for years to come.

What's Next for the Gülen Movement?

With Gülen's passing, the future of the Gülen movement remains uncertain. Will the movement continue to thrive, or will it fade into obscurity? Only time will tell. One thing is certain, however: the impact of Gülen's life and legacy will be felt for generations to come.

Fethullah Gülen may be gone, but his memory and impact will live on, sparking important conversations about democracy, education, and the role of moderate Islam in modern society.

SAYLORSBURG, Pa. (AP) — Fethullah Gülen, a reclusive U.S.-based Islamic cleric who inspired a global social movement while facing unproven accusations that he masterminded a failed 2016 coup in his native Turkey, has died. Gülen's death has sent shockwaves throughout the world, as people grapple with the complexities of his life and legacy.

Influential Turkish Spiritual Leader Fethullah Gülen Dies in US Exile