Invocation and Prayer

The religious leader, Nakib el §erif Efendi, commenced the ceremony by kissing the Sultan’s skirts and offering his prayer.

Oath and Allegiance

Kaymakam Pasha, the Admiral, and the Chief of the corps of halberdiers approached with the roll, standing to the right of the Sultan. The Sheikhulislam followed, taking his oath of allegiance, praying, and then joining the religious leader.

Ceremonial Gestures

Kaymakam Pasha, adorned in ceremonial attire, stooped and kissed the Sultan’s skirts, receiving applause. Upon the Sultan’s request for a repetition of the applause, it was granted. The Admiral, also applauded twice, stood beside Kaymakam Pasha and introduced forthcoming officials Istanbul Fun Tours.

Announcement of Accession

Following the ceremonies, the Chief Town-crier Agha was tasked with announcing the Imperial Accession to the throne from the four major mosques: Ayasofya, §ehzade, Süleymaniye, and Sultanahmet.

Ceremonial Protocol

During Sultan Mustafa Khan’s reign, officials took oaths in ceremonial attire, mirroring tradition. However, this time, the ceremony unfolded differently.

Rituals for the Departed Sultan

The late Sultan Abdulhamit I was taken from the Harem gate for ritual ablution performed by the Master Yazici under a baldachin. Upon the purse-bearer’s notification of protocol requirements, permission was granted for the necessary ceremonies. The Sheikhulislam, Kaymakam Pasha, and the Admiral paid their respects to the departed Sultan before departing themselves.

This account underscores the solemn rituals and ceremonial protocols observed during the transition of power and the mourning rites for the deceased Sultan.