This Is the Final Chapter, O My Life (Book)

This Is the Final Chapter, O My Life is a work authored by Prof. Dr. Mustafa Kara and published by Dergâh Yayınları in February 2024. The book examines how Sufi culture was sustained in Republican-era Türkiye and the contributions of key figures of the period to this culture. In this collection of articles and analytical essays, Mustafa Kara explores the trajectory of Sufism during the Republican era and the prominent individuals who shaped it.

Summary of Contents

The book investigates how Sufi culture persisted after the closure of tekkes and the banning of Sufi orders in 1925. Mustafa Kara emphasizes that Sufism was kept alive during this period through the efforts of various individuals. The work discusses significant figures such as Nurettin Topçu, who entered the Sufi world under the guidance of Nakşî sheikh Abdülaziz Bekkine and developed a new philosophical language through his cultural outlook, as well as figures associated with the Hareket movement. Additionally, the book includes Ahmed Avni Konuk, who wrote a commentary on Fusus al-Hikam during the years when tekkes were closed; Sabri Ülgener, who connected tekke psychology with professional life; and Abdülbaki Gölpınarlı, known for his thesis titled Melâmilik ve Melâmiler.

Themes

• Sufism in the Republican Era: The book examines how Sufi culture was maintained following the closure of tekkes and the prohibition of Sufi orders in the early years of the Republic.
• The Modernization of Sufism: It explores how Sufism underwent transformation during the process of modernization and how this transformation was guided by key individuals.
• The Relationship Between Sufism and Philosophy: The book discusses how Sufism interacted with philosophical thought and how this interaction gave rise to a new mode of intellectual expression.

Narrative and Style

Mustafa Kara employs an academic tone and methodological approach to provide a detailed analysis of how Sufi culture was sustained during the Republican period. The work offers an in-depth examination rooted in history, sociology, and Sufi studies.