Ali Yıldırım
Sultan Bahauddin Veled, an eminent scholar and Sufi of the Islamic world, lived in the 12th century. He is the father of Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi, and laid the foundation for Mevlana’s spiritual journey. Bahauddin Veled is also known as “Sultanü’l-Ulemâ,” which means “the Sultan of scholars.” He was born in Belh, which was a center of knowledge and thought during that time. He was the son of Hüseyin Hatibi, the son of Belhli Hatip Ahmed.
After losing his father at a young age, Bahauddin Veled inherited his knowledge and wisdom, dedicating himself to the path of religious sciences and Sufism. He became a prominent figure among the scholars of his time, possessing profound knowledge in both exoteric and esoteric sciences. He emphasized the importance of preserving the outward aspects of the Sharia and adhering to the Sunnah, and he despised those who deviated from it and considered them as innovators.
One night, more than three hundred distinguished scholars and muftis in Belh saw the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in their dreams, instructing them to call Bahauddin Veled “Sultanü’l-Ulemâ” and address him with this title. From that day on, all the scholars of Belh recognized him with this honorific title.
However, his fame and influence aroused jealousy and uneasiness among some other scholars and Sufis. Figures like Fahreddin-i Razi, Kadi Zeyni, and Ferazi began to criticize Bahauddin Veled. This situation also affected the Horasan ruler, who demanded that Bahauddin Veled leave Belh. Undeterred, Bahauddin Veled refused the offer of ruling and declared himself a dervish, deciding to embark on a migration from Belh.
Accompanied by his family, disciples, and a caravan of three hundred camels, Bahauddin Veled set out on the journey. During this migration, they stayed in significant cities for extended periods, engaging in discussions with scholars and Sufis. Places like Nishapur and Baghdad warmly welcomed them. In Baghdad, they were hosted by Sheikh Şehabeddin Sühreverdî and a large crowd of people showed great affection and respect.
Despite the Sultan’s regret and apologies, Bahauddin Veled was determined to continue his journey. He asserted that he was a dervish and preferred to travel while the Sultan stayed behind with his subjects and friends.
The migration finally brought them to Konya, where they settled. Konya became the place where Bahauddin Veled’s fame further grew, and people’s love and respect for him reached its peak. Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi, during this journey, learned from his father and developed into a great Sufi and thinker.
Sultan Bahauddin Veled’s spiritual teachings and wisdom touched the hearts of people, emphasizing the significance of preserving the outward aspects of the Sharia and guiding them on their spiritual journey. Many embraced his teachings and became his disciples.
Sultan Bahauddin Veled passed away on the 18th of Rabi’ al-Awwal, 628 (23rd February 1231) on a Friday. However, his legacy lived on through Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi and the Mevlevi Order. Mevlana, following his father’s path, became a significant Sufi, philosopher, and poet, leaving a profound impact on world history. Even today, Mevlana and the Mevlevi Order continue to spread a message of love, tolerance, and unity among people. Sultan Bahauddin Veled’s teachings and spiritual legacy remain a guiding light for humanity’s spiritual journey and will continue to do so for generations to come
