The Life of Muhammed Fethullah Gülen

Muhammed Fethullah Gülen, born on April 27, 1941, in Turkey, emerged as a prominent Muslim scholar and preacher, shaping the landscape of contemporary Islamic thought. His teachings emphasized interfaith dialogue, education, and social justice, leading to the establishment of a vast network of schools and institutions worldwide. By 2016, he had garnered millions of followers, united under the Gülen movement, which advocates for a moderate interpretation of Islam. Gülen's philosophy intertwines spirituality with a commitment to science and modernity, promoting a vision of a harmonious society. However, his legacy is complex; following a failed coup in Turkey in 2016, he faced accusations of orchestrating the event, leading to his self-imposed exile in the United States. His life reflects the tensions between faith and politics, making him a pivotal figure in understanding modern Turkey and global Islamic movements.