The Creed of the Resurrection Generation was written by Turkish writer and thinker Sezai Karakoç. Its first edition was published by Diriliş Yayınları in 1974. The work is one of the fundamental texts of Karakoç's system of ideas, which he called "resurrection thought." The work defines the fundamental beliefs and worldview of a new generation.
Content
The book consists of a holistic text written without the use of any chapter or section headings. The narration is direct and continuous. The work focuses on what belief principles, moral stances, and ways of life the ideal individual and community, defined as the “resurrection generation”, should possess. Key topics highlighted within this framework are detailed below:
Faith-Based Understanding of Life
The work emphasizes that individuals should organize their lives around the belief in divine oneness (Tawhid). Submission to Allah should lie at the foundation of one's thoughts, actions, and worldview. Faith is considered not only an individual internal experience but also a system that guides life. The resurrection generation should manifest its faith not merely as theoretical knowledge but in a practical way in every aspect of their lives.
Islamic Civilization Perspective
The work presents a vision of an Islamic civilization oriented towards the future. This vision is based on a structure rooted in the fundamental principles of Islam across fields such as culture, art, politics, economy, and social order. The resurrection generation is an agent bearing the responsibility of rebuilding this civilization.
Individual Responsibility and Social Consciousness
In Karakoç's text, it is stated that an individual's inner transformation is a prerequisite for societal transformation. Every individual is obligated both to develop themselves and to contribute to the general moral structure of society. This consciousness is not limited to individual worship and ethics but includes an active effort towards social justice, education, solidarity, and establishing a moral social order.
Critique of Western Civilization
The work critiques the modern Western civilization's approach to humanity and life from various perspectives. It is stated that the secular, materialistic, and individualistic structure of the West isolates humanity and distances it from spirituality. The resurrection generation should adopt a critical stance against such a concept of civilization and turn towards its own roots, namely, Islam's system of values.
Moral Stance and Inner Resurrection
Karakoç emphasizes that resurrection is not merely an external change but essentially an inner resurrection, meaning a moral and spiritual rebirth. The resurrection generation should stand against lies, ostentation, self-interest, and worldliness; they should internalize fundamental moral virtues such as honesty, humility, sincerity, and justice. This stance enables the individual to build a strong identity both within themselves and within society.
Selected Quotes
- “As the resurrection generation, we walk trusting in Allah's grace and infinite mercy.”
- “One cannot revive society without reviving oneself.”
- “Resurrection is not an idea; it is a way of being.”
- “Those who pursue the truth often walk not among crowds, but in silence.”
- “We are the children of a generation that will reread the earth and the sky.”
- “Knowledge without faith is like power without conscience; directionless, aimless, and dangerous.”
- “When a nation loses its soul, even if it continues to exist, it cannot be said to be truly living.”
- “Resurrection is not returning to the past; it is carrying the truth that comes from the root into the future.”
- “Morality is the banner of the resurrection generation.”
- “Adherence to truth is more valuable than the applause of crowds.”
- “Our civilization must first revive in the heart; then it should rise in cities.”
- “The resurrection generation is a voice that reminds those who forget and awakens those who sleep.”
- “Patience is the fuel of the path to resurrection.”
