The Center for Islamic Studies of the Turkish Religious Foundation (ISAM) is a well-established institution that conducts research within the framework of Islamic religious, historical, and civilizational principles. Its primary goal is to convey the historical and cultural heritage of Muslim societies to the contemporary academic world. Founded in 1983 under the auspices of the Turkish Religious Foundation, the General Directorate of the Islamic Encyclopedia paved the way for ISAM’s establishment. Over the years, ISAM has carried out significant academic and cultural projects both in Turkey and internationally. This article provides a detailed overview of ISAM’s history, ongoing projects, and services.
ISAM Entrance/Courtyard
History and Founding Purpose of ISAM
Foundation Process and Early Years
ISAM was established in 1983 under the Turkish Religious Foundation as the General Directorate of the Islamic Encyclopedia. Initially, its primary objective was to publish the TDV Islamic Encyclopedia, with the broader aim of promoting Islamic research and presenting accumulated knowledge to society. In 1988, ISAM gained its institutional identity under the name Center for Islamic Studies, focusing primarily on preparing the TDV Islamic Encyclopedia. The first volume of the encyclopedia was published in 1988, and the monumental 46-volume work was completed in 2016.
Expansion of Activities and Reorganization
Over time, ISAM expanded its fields of activity, establishing the Library and Documentation Department and launching research training programs. In 2005, the ISAM Publishing Committee was formed, and the institution has since followed a publication policy that includes periodicals, guide documents, and research projects. In 2014, ISAM received the Presidential Grand Award for Culture and Arts, gaining recognition not only in Turkey but also internationally. In response to modern needs, ISAM has undergone restructuring processes, emphasizing digitalization and electronic publishing.
Key Activities of ISAM
Publications and Encyclopedia Projects
One of ISAM’s most significant projects, the TDV Islamic Encyclopedia, is a comprehensive 46-volume work that provides accurate and reliable information about Islam, its history, and civilization. Following the completion of this project, ISAM also published the Basic Islamic Encyclopedia, which presents information in a simplified language with visual elements. In addition, ISAM has undertaken encyclopedic works such as the Great Istanbul History, covering the history of Istanbul, and Thematic Encyclopedias, providing up-to-date information on the Islamic world.
Education and Research Training Programs
ISAM has played a key role in training qualified researchers in Islamic sciences. Through the Researcher Training Project (AYP), it has provided doctoral students with opportunities for overseas education to support their academic development. In 2012, this project was updated with the launch of new initiatives such as the Summer Research and Education Support Program (YADEP) and the Undergraduate Academic Support Program (LADEP), contributing to the development of new-generation scholars. These programs primarily focus on enhancing academic staff in faculties of theology, solidifying ISAM’s leading role in education.
ISAM Library
Digitalization and Database Projects
ISAM has embraced digital transformation, launching comprehensive digitization initiatives. The TDV Islamic Encyclopedia has been made accessible online, reaching a wider audience. Moreover, projects like the Scholars Database Project aim to provide detailed information on Islamic scholars. Future plans include transforming the encyclopedia’s data on locations, individuals, concepts, and dates into searchable databases for advanced research. These initiatives reflect ISAM’s commitment to producing digital resources compatible with international data systems.
ISAM Library and Research Support Services
Specialized Library
The ISAM Library is one of the world’s leading specialized libraries, offering a vast archive related to Islamic sciences. It provides researchers with access to a wealth of original resources, including classical works in Arabic and Ottoman Turkish, as well as modern research materials. ISAM also conducts text verification and critical edition studies to make manuscript works accessible to researchers. Projects such as the Istanbul Court Registers have helped bring Ottoman-era records to contemporary scholars.
Guides and Documentation
ISAM provides various guides and documentation to assist researchers working in Islamic sciences. These publications, prepared under the ISAM Publications division, contribute to academic studies and provide a solid foundation for Islamic research. The Encyclopedia Publication Board and other committees play a crucial role in the publication process.
Oral History and the History of the Islamic Encyclopedia Project
To document the history of the Islamic Encyclopedia, ISAM has initiated Oral History Studies. These projects aim to provide detailed insights into the encyclopedia’s preparation process, preserving the experiences and perspectives of those involved. This initiative serves as a valuable resource for future generations, offering a documentary record of the encyclopedia’s development.
ISAM Backyard
For nearly 40 years, the Center for Islamic Studies of the Turkish Religious Foundation (ISAM) has been dedicated to providing reliable information about Islam, its history, and civilization, as well as fostering qualified researchers in this field. With its landmark projects such as the TDV Islamic Encyclopedia, research programs, specialized library, and digitalization efforts, ISAM is recognized as one of the most prestigious Islamic research institutions in Turkey and beyond. As ISAM continues to expand its digital resources and databases, it is expected to further contribute to the field of Islamic sciences and maintain its role as a source of inspiration in the academic world.
