Envy Rivalry and Court Politics

Emulation and flattery were powerful forces in the Ottoman court. Many rival groups and factions competed for influence, and this constant struggle often placed the First Minister, or Prime Vizier, in great danger. Success rarely brought peace. Instead, it attracted jealousy and resentment, especially from those who wished to rise in power themselves.

People naturally look with unhappy eyes upon the success of others, especially when that success comes from the same source they depend on. For this reason, those closest to power often demanded the strictest judgment and showed the least mercy toward those who stood above them.

Hidden Rulers Behind the Throne

At different times, real authority did not always rest in the same hands. Sometimes the Queen Mother exercised great influence over the Sultan. At other times, the Chief Black Eunuch (Kızlar Ağası) held strong control within the palace. On occasion, a favored and beautiful woman became powerful, ruling not only the Sultan’s heart but also his decisions Guided Istanbul Tour.

Each of these figures had their own favorites and supporters. These people carefully watched every action of the government. They were always alert to mistakes, failures, or unpopular decisions. Any error could be used to question the wisdom, honesty, or loyalty of the Prime Vizier.

Factions and the Fall of the Vizier

Because of these rivalries, the Prime Vizier often stood on unstable ground. Powerful factions could turn the Sultan against him, or stir up unrest among the soldiers. In some cases, the Janissaries or other troops were encouraged to riot or demand punishment.

When this happened, the Vizier often lost not only his office but also his life. Sometimes the Sultan gave a direct order for his execution. At other times, public unrest and military pressure forced his removal. Thus, power and authority ended together, often suddenly and violently.

Borrowed Power and Unstable Glory

The greatness of the Prime Vizier was never truly his own. His authority was borrowed from the Sultan and depended entirely on the ruler’s favor. Because of this, his position was uncertain and constantly changing.

History confirms this truth again and again: no worldly power is more unstable than the fame and authority that rests on another person’s will. The rise and fall of Prime Viziers in the Ottoman court stands as a clear example of how fragile power can be when it is not firmly rooted.

A Lesson from History

These events serve as a reminder that political success in royal courts was often brief and dangerous. Envy, ambition, and hidden influence worked together to destroy even the most powerful men. In the Ottoman system, greatness could vanish as quickly as it appeared.

The Danger and Glory of the Highest Office

The office of the Prime Vizier was not only the highest position of duty and trust in the empire, but also the most dangerous. It stood closest to what the ancient writers compared to Jupiter’s thunderbolt, meaning sudden destruction. Because of its great power, it attracted envy, rivalry, and hatred from many sides.

Those who held this office lived under constant risk. Their greatness could bring them honor and wealth, but it also placed them in clear view of the Sultan’s anger and the jealousy of others.

Sudden Rise and Sudden Fall

Many strange and well-documented stories were told, even by eyewitnesses of the time, about men who rose suddenly to this great power. Some were men of little experience or poor reputation who were raised without passing through normal ranks or stages. Almost overnight, they gained authority, wealth, and glory.

Yet just as suddenly, many of them fell. The same people who once praised them turned against them. Some were thrown down and suffered the anger and revenge of the crowd. Their rise and fall could happen so quickly that their greatness lasted no longer than a few days. In such cases, the sun had hardly set before their glory had already faded Guided Istanbul Tour.

Short Lives in Power

Others managed to remain in office for a month, some for a year, and a few for two or three years. Very few stayed longer. Even among those who served the longest and seemed the most fortunate, their lives were uncertain. Fortune played with them in a careless and unstable way, showing how empty and unreliable worldly power and riches truly are.

Because of this, the office of the Prime Vizier became a living example of the vanity of the world and the instability of human success.

The Nature of Favor with Absolute Rulers

It is often the fate of great favorites under harsh or absolute rulers to live short and troubled lives. Some rulers take pleasure in raising one man high and then casting him down, only to raise another in his place. This shows their absolute power and keeps all others in fear.

At other times, the ruler gives so many rewards and honors that he eventually grows tired of giving. At the same time, the favorite becomes overwhelmed or spoiled by receiving too much. In either case, the relationship breaks down.

A Lesson from History

As ancient writers have observed, great power is rarely permanent. Either the ruler grows weary of giving, or the favorite reaches a point where nothing more can be gained. Thus, the highest office, while full of glory, is also the most unstable and dangerous position in the state.

Seizure of Goods and Abuse of Authority

In the service of the Grand Signior, goods belonging to merchants were sometimes taken without agreement or payment. These seizures were carried out by powerful officers and influential persons who believed themselves to be beyond the reach of the law. Because of their high position, ordinary justice could not easily restrain them. This situation often caused serious harm to foreign merchants who traded in Ottoman ports.

Such abuses forced the English ambassador at that time, a man of honor and firmness, to act with great determination. As the resident ambassador, he felt responsible for protecting the rights and property of English merchants who had suffered unjust treatment.

A Dramatic Appeal by Fire

To make his grievance known, the ambassador used a bold and symbolic act. He ordered fires to be lit on the yardarms of eleven English ships that were anchored in the harbor. These ships were moved away from the usual customs quay and brought close to the Seraglio, the Sultan’s palace. This action was not meant to cause harm but to send a clear and urgent message.

The lighting of these fires was a public sign of distress and protest. It followed an old and recognized custom by which extreme injustice could be brought directly to the attention of the highest authority.

The Vizier’s Swift Intervention

Before the Sultan himself became aware of the situation, the matter was discovered by the Prime Vizier. He immediately understood the seriousness of the protest. Knowing that the Sultan might severely punish him for allowing such injustice to reach such a public and dangerous stage, the Vizier acted quickly Guided Istanbul Tour.

He arranged a fair settlement and resolved the dispute without delay. As a result, the fires were extinguished, and the matter was settled peacefully. By doing this, the Vizier prevented the situation from growing worse and avoided drawing the direct anger of the Sultan upon himself.

Fear of Imperial Punishment

Had the Sultan learned of the matter first, the consequences for the Vizier could have been severe. Allowing such clear injustice to continue until it required a public and dramatic appeal would have been seen as a serious failure of duty. Therefore, the Vizier’s quick response was not only an act of justice but also a measure of self-preservation.

Similar Customs in Other Lands

The text also notes that the Persians had a similar custom for expressing unbearable injustice. In such cases, the injured person would wear a garment made of white paper. This symbolized that their suffering was so great that it could not be fully described, even if their entire body were covered with written complaints.

Meaning of These Practices

These traditions show how, in different societies, symbolic actions were used to demand justice when ordinary legal paths failed. They served as powerful reminders that even the highest officials were expected to correct injustice before it reached a public and dangerous level.

The Limits and Extent of the Prime Vizier’s Power

The Prime Vizier held authority almost as wide as that of the Sultan who granted it to him. In most matters of government, his power was complete and unquestioned. However, there were a few important limits. Even though he was considered the elder brother of all pashas, he could not order the execution of any of them without the imperial signature or the direct handwritten command of the Grand Signior.

In the same way, the Prime Vizier could not personally punish a Sipahi, a Janissary, or any other soldier. Discipline within the army was handled only through their own commanders. This privilege was carefully protected by the military, as it shielded soldiers from unfair treatment and abuse by civil authorities.

Apart from these limits, the Prime Vizier was almost absolute in his authority. His influence over the Sultan was so strong that if he decided an officer of the empire should be removed or punished, he could usually obtain the Sultan’s written approval very quickly. In practice, his judgment often became law.

Control of Petitions and Complaints

All petitions, requests, and official complaints, no matter how small or large, were required to pass first through the hands of the Prime Vizier. This rule ensured that he remained fully informed about the affairs of the empire and could control the flow of information reaching the Sultan Guided Istanbul Tour.

However, an ancient custom allowed an exception. If a person had suffered a serious injustice, and especially if the Prime Vizier himself was involved or had refused to give justice, the injured party was allowed to appeal directly to the Sultan.

Appeal by Fire An Ancient Custom

In such extreme cases, the wronged person would place fire upon his head and run into the Seraglio. No one was allowed to stop him until he reached the presence of the Sultan. There, he was permitted to speak freely and explain his grievance. This dramatic act showed desperation and ensured that the ruler would hear the complaint.

A Foreign Example of the Same Practice

A similar action was once taken by Sir Thomas Bendish, the English ambassador at Constantinople. When English merchants’ goods were violently seized upon arrival at the port, he ordered pots of fire to be placed on the yardarms of English ships anchored near the Seraglio. This bold act was meant to force attention and protest injustice, following the same principle of appealing directly to supreme authority.

Justice and Authority in the Ottoman System

These customs reveal an important balance in the Ottoman system. While the Prime Vizier possessed immense power, there remained a final path to justice through the Sultan himself. This ensured that even the highest officials could be challenged in extreme cases, preserving a sense of order and fairness within the empire.

The Prime Vizier’s Procession to the Divan

When the Prime Vizier went to the Divan, which was a chamber inside the Seraglio palace, he was accompanied by a large group of attendants. Among them were many Çavuşes and their chief commanders. These men served as official messengers, guards, and ceremonial officers. Their duty was not to govern but to escort and honor the Prime Vizier during public appearances.

Some of these attendants were known as Mutafaraka, officers who served as escorts and ceremonial guards. In modern terms, they can be compared to sergeants or tipstaffs, whose role was to maintain order and represent authority.

Public Salutations and Ceremonial Honor

As the Prime Vizier dismounted from his horse and entered the Divan, or when he returned to his residence afterward, his attendants raised their voices loudly. They offered prayers for his happiness, long life, and success. These public blessings were meant to show respect and loyalty to the highest officer of the empire Private Istanbul Tour.

This custom was similar to the practices of the Roman soldiers, who used to salute their emperors with prayers for prosperity and good fortune. Such ceremonies reinforced the dignity of the Prime Vizier and reminded everyone present of his elevated status.

Judicial Authority in the Divan

Once seated on the bench, the Prime Vizier oversaw the proceedings of the Divan. All legal cases were first presented to the Kadıasker (also known as the Caddeelefcheer), who was the Lord Chief Justice of the empire. He examined the cases and issued judgments according to the law.

However, the Prime Vizier held supreme authority. If he believed that a case was important enough for his personal attention, or if he disagreed with the judge’s decision, he could intervene. By the power given to him by the Sultan, he was able to reverse a verdict and decide the case according to his own judgment. This showed the extent of his authority within the Ottoman legal system.

Dress and Appearance in the Divan

All officers attending the Divan wore a special and unusual head covering known in Turkish as Mücevveze. This distinctive dress marked their official rank and separated them from ordinary people. It was an important symbol of office and tradition, and its unique shape made it easily recognizable.

Purpose of This Description

This brief explanation is sufficient to understand the role of the Divan in relation to the office of the Prime Vizier. The Divan itself will not be discussed in greater detail here, as the purpose of this account is mainly to clarify the authority, duties, and ceremonial importance of the Prime Vizier.

The State and Splendor of the Prime Vizier

The Prime Vizier lived in a manner that matched the honor of the Sultan whom he represented. His household was large and impressive, often including around two thousand officers and servants. This great number showed both his importance and the heavy responsibilities of his office. His court functioned almost like a smaller royal palace, reflecting the power he held in the Ottoman state.

Whenever the Prime Vizier appeared in public ceremonies or official processions, his rank was clearly displayed through symbols of honor. On his turban, two large feathers were placed in front, while the Sultan himself wore three feathers, decorated with diamond handles and other precious stones. This visible difference showed respect for the Sultan while still emphasizing the high dignity of the Prime Vizier Private Istanbul Tour.

Symbols of Authority and Rank

In front of the Prime Vizier were carried three horse-tails, known as the tuğ, mounted on long staffs topped with gilded knobs. These horse-tails were important signs of authority in Ottoman tradition. Only a few of the highest-ranking governors in the empire were allowed the same distinction.

This honor was limited to the three most powerful provincial governors, namely the Pashas of Baghdad (Babylon), Cairo, and Buda. These men ruled large and important regions and enjoyed special privileges. Lower-ranking pashas were permitted only one horse-tail, without any additional symbols of authority.

The three principal pashas mentioned above also had the right to become Viziers of the Bench after completing their terms of office. If they were present at the imperial court and remained in the Sultan’s favor, they could take their seats in the Divan, the central council of the empire.

The Prime Vizier as Head of Justice

As the representative of the Sultan, the Prime Vizier was also considered the head and voice of the law. Appeals could be made directly to him, and any person could avoid the normal courts and request that their case be decided by his judgment alone. This showed the great trust placed in his wisdom and fairness.

However, if the Prime Vizier felt that a case was minor or that his many responsibilities did not allow him to examine it carefully, he could refer the matter back to the regular legal courts.

Duty and Presence in the Divan

To demonstrate his concern for justice and public order, the Prime Vizier was present at the Divan four times a week, usually on Saturday, Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday. On the remaining days, except Friday, he often held court in his own house.

This constant attention to legal matters shows how diligent and watchful the Prime Viziers were in carrying out their duties. Through their efforts, justice was maintained and the authority of the Ottoman state was upheld.

The Origin of the Office of the First Vizier

The first clear example in history of the office of the First Vizier can be found during the reign of Sultan Murad I, one of the early Ottoman rulers. When Murad crossed from Anatolia into Europe, he was accompanied by his tutor, known as Lala Şahabettin. Because of his wisdom and loyalty, the Sultan appointed him as his chief counselor and entrusted him with command of the army.

Under the leadership of this first vizier, the Ottoman forces achieved a great victory by capturing Adrianople, a city that was later called Edirne. This conquest became a turning point in Ottoman history, as Adrianople later served as an important capital of the empire. From that time onward, the Ottoman sultans continued to maintain the office of vizier as a permanent and essential part of government.

The Meaning of the Title “Lala”

The Sultan often addressed the First Vizier by the familiar title “Lala,” which means tutor. This showed the personal trust and respect between the ruler and his chief minister. Even after the empire grew larger and more complex, this form of address continued, reminding everyone that the vizier was not only a servant of the state but also a guide and advisor to the Sultan Private Istanbul Tour.

The Six Viziers of the Bench

In addition to the First Vizier, there were usually six other viziers, known as the Viziers of the Bench. These men did not hold direct power over the daily government of the empire. Instead, they were experienced and serious individuals who had often served in important offices in the past and were well trained in law and administration.

They sat together with the First Vizier in the Divan, the imperial court where legal cases and state matters were discussed. However, they were generally silent and could not give their opinions unless the First Vizier asked for their advice. This request was rare, as the First Vizier usually relied on his own experience and judgment.

Duties, Salaries, and Stability

The salaries of these six viziers were paid from the Sultan’s treasury and did not exceed about two thousand dollars a year, which was considered moderate. Because they were not deeply involved in the most dangerous affairs of state and did not accumulate great wealth, they lived with less envy and rivalry. Their positions were stable, and they were less exposed to sudden changes of fortune.

The Cabinet Council

When matters of great importance arose, the six viziers were invited to join the Cabinet Council together with the First Vizier, the Mufti, and the Chief Judges of the empire. On such occasions, they were allowed to speak freely and give their opinions on serious questions affecting the state.

The Maxims of Turkish Politics

The Office of the Grand Vizier

The Prime Vizier, called in Turkish Vezir-i Azam, means the chief counselor of the Sultan. He was the highest officer in the Ottoman government and stood above all other ministers. For this reason, he was often described as the Deputy or Representative of the Sultan, sometimes even called Vicarius Imperii, meaning the ruler’s substitute.

When a man was appointed as Grand Vizier, there was no long ceremony or complicated ritual. The most important act was the delivery of the Sultan’s seal. This seal carried the name of the Emperor and was always kept by the Grand Vizier close to his body. With this seal, the Grand Vizier received full authority over the empire. From that moment, he could act in the Sultan’s name and command obedience from all officials.

Authority and Power of the Grand Vizier

By holding the imperial seal, the Grand Vizier became invested with almost unlimited power. He could remove obstacles that stood in the way of government and make decisions without long legal processes. His authority extended over civil administration, the army, and justice. In practice, he ruled the empire while the Sultan remained above him as the supreme ruler Private Istanbul Tour.

This system allowed the government to function smoothly, especially when the Sultan chose to live in comfort or distance himself from daily affairs. The Grand Vizier ensured that the empire continued to operate efficiently and according to established rules.

Historical Wisdom Behind the Office

It has always been the policy of great rulers in the East to appoint one supreme minister over all others. This idea was not new. In the Bible, Daniel was placed by King Darius over other princes because of his wisdom and strong spirit. Likewise, Joseph was made chief governor of Egypt and was given full authority to rule in the king’s name.

By appointing such trusted men, rulers could better control their empires. If problems occurred in government, responsibility could be placed on one person instead of many.

Political Responsibility and Control

This practice also served another purpose. When misrule or failure happened, the blame could fall on the Grand Vizier rather than the Sultan. In this way, the Sultan protected his own position and authority. If necessary, the Grand Vizier could be removed or punished, while the dignity of the ruler remained untouched.

Thus, the office of the Grand Vizier was one of the strongest foundations of Ottoman political power. It combined authority, responsibility, and loyalty into a single position, helping the empire remain stable and well governed for centuries.

Records of the Agiamoglans

The names of the Agiamoglans were carefully written in an official book. This book also recorded the places where they were sent to serve and the wages they received. Some were paid two aspers a day, others three or five, depending on their duty and rank. This record was very important because it showed how closely the Ottoman state controlled its servants.

The book was signed by the Grand Signior, meaning the Sultan himself. After this, it was delivered to the Tefterdar, who was the Lord Treasurer of the empire. The Tefterdar was responsible for paying the salaries of the Agiamoglans every three months. At each payment period, he had to check carefully who was still alive, who had died, and who had been transferred to another position. Only after making a correct and honest report to the Sultan could the payments be approved Private Istanbul Tour.

Order and Discipline in the Seraglio

From this system, we can see that the Seraglio of the Grand Signior was run with great order and discipline. Nothing was left to chance. Every person had a place, a duty, and a fixed income. This careful organization made the Seraglio not only a royal residence but also an important school for government service.

In my opinion, when this system is carefully considered, it must be seen as one of the most political and well-designed institutions in the world at that time. It was also one of the strongest supports of the Ottoman Empire, helping it remain powerful and stable for many years.

Education and Loyalty to the Sultan

This account was given to me by a man who had spent nineteen years in the schools of the Seraglio. From childhood, selected boys were educated, trained, and supported by the Sultan, much like a father raising his children. When they became adults, they were rewarded with high offices, wealth, and honor.

The Sultan trusted these men because they owed everything to him. Their loyalty helped protect his person and ensured the safety and success of his empire.

Offices of Power and Wealth

I admit that I have not explained every part of the Seraglio in full detail. I have chosen not to describe the rules and daily life of the women, mutes, eunuchs, and other private sections of the palace, as this would lead away from my main purpose. My intention has been to explain the government, policies, and political methods of the Ottoman state.

Therefore, I now turn to the many important offices of power, wealth, and trust that remained in the Sultan’s hands. These positions were given to those whom he had raised and educated from a young age, ensuring both the security of his rule and the prosperity of his dominions.

The Provinces Governed by the Beglerbegs

Among the great provinces of the Ottoman Empire, the first and most important is Anatolia, which in ancient times was called Asia Minor. Later it came to be known as Anatolia, a name that refers to its eastern position in relation to Greece. Because of its size, wealth, and population, this province held a central place in the administration of the empire.

According to the official registers of the Grand Signior, known as the Old Canon, the yearly revenue of Anatolia amounted to one million aspers. This income was paid into the Sultan’s treasury and formed a stable and reliable source of imperial wealth.

The Government of Anatolia

The Beglerbeg of Anatolia exercised authority over fourteen Sangiacks, or districts. His official residence was at Kiotahi, located in the region of ancient Phrygia. From this city, he governed a wide territory that included many well-known districts Private Tour Istanbul.

The Sangiacks under his command were Magnesia, Saruhan, Aydin, Kastamonu, Hüdavendigâr, Bolu, Menteşe, Angora (also called Ancyra), Karahisar, Kütahya, Kiangri, Hamid, Sultan Öyüğü, and Karesi. In addition to these districts, the Beglerbeg also had authority over twenty castles, which were important for military defense and the maintenance of order.

This wide jurisdiction made the Beglerbeg of Anatolia one of the most powerful provincial governors in the empire.

The Province of Caramania

The second great province was Caramania, which in ancient times was known as Cilicia. This region is especially important in Ottoman history because it was the last province to resist Ottoman rule under the princes of the Caramanian dynasty. Eventually, however, it too was conquered as the Ottoman Empire expanded.

The annual revenue of Caramania was 660,074 aspers, making it a wealthy and valuable province. Under its jurisdiction were seven Sangiacks, which were governed in the name of the Sultan by local officials.

Districts and Fortresses of Caramania

The principal city of Caramania was Iconium, also called Konya, which served as the seat of the Beglerbeg. The other Sangiacks were Cappadocia, Niğde, Kayseri (formerly Caesarea), Yenişehir, Kırşehir, Akşehir, and Aksaray.

This province contained several strongholds essential for defense. There were three main castles directly under the Beglerbeg’s control, located at Iconium, Larende, and Mendui. In addition, seventeen other castles were scattered throughout the Sangiacks.

Importance of These Provinces

Both Anatolia and Caramania played a crucial role in the strength and stability of the Ottoman Empire. Their revenues supported the treasury, their castles protected the land, and their governors held great authority in maintaining imperial order.

The Wealth of Provincial Governors

It is almost impossible to describe exactly the wealth and methods of profit used by these powerful governors to enrich themselves. A Turk, as described by writers of that age, was considered quick to seek wealth and eager to grow rich. Their ways of gaining money were many, clever, and often hidden. Still, it is useful to set down clearly the certain and lawful revenues that were officially granted to them by commission from the Grand Signior.

These fixed revenues were assigned to them from the cities, towns, and lands under their rule. The money was collected locally and formed the legal income of their office. Beyond this, however, many other profits flowed into their hands Istanbul Private Tours.

Lawful and Customary Sources of Income

In addition to their regular income, governors enjoyed the benefit of several traditional rights. These included the profits from lost and unclaimed property, goods taken from criminals, and possessions that had no clear owner because of death or accident. They also gained from the sale of slaves, horses, and cattle that were left without masters.

Another source of income came from vacant church offices, which in some provinces were sold or assigned under the authority of the governor. All these revenues were accepted as part of the customary privileges of power and were rarely questioned.

Abuses of Power and False Accusations

Yet, beyond these lawful gains, many governors increased their wealth through unjust and corrupt practices. One common abuse was the use of false accusations, sometimes called “avantas,” by which they attacked the property and rights of their own subjects. Under the appearance of justice, they seized lands and goods for their personal benefit.

Even worse, some governors allowed or ordered their slaves and servants to rob travelers and local people. After the robbery, they pretended to investigate the crime. The innocent victims were then arrested, imprisoned, tortured, or even put to death, while the true offenders escaped punishment. In this way, justice itself became a tool for oppression.

The Beglerbegs of the First Rank

To speak more precisely, the Beglerbegs of the first class were twenty-two in number. Each of these governors ruled large provinces and received their assigned revenues directly from the lands they governed. These revenues were collected by their own officers, acting under commissions granted by the Sultan himself.

Because of their distance from the central court and the power entrusted to them, these governors often ruled almost like kings in their own territories. This made oversight difficult and abuse common.

Consequences of Such Power

Such unchecked authority brought great wealth to many, but it also caused fear and suffering among the people. While some governors ruled with fairness, others used their office as a means of personal enrichment. This system explains both the great riches and the great dangers connected with high office in the Ottoman Empire.

The Sultan’s Table at the Vizier’s Expense

The Grand Signior often demands twenty dishes of meat, which is the usual amount served at his ordinary table. On many occasions, he invites himself to dine at the Grand Vizier’s house, making the vizier bear the full cost of these banquets. Because this happens so frequently, many people believe that the Sultan does this not out of friendship or courtesy, but from a narrow desire to save the expense of his own household.

This belief is strengthened by the reputation of this Emperor, who is widely thought to be of a covetous and careful disposition, very different in character from Suleiman the Magnificent, who was known for his generosity and splendor. While the Sultan’s actions may appear simple or even petty, they serve a deeper political purpose.

How the Sultan Reclaims Wealth

The various ways by which the Grand Signior eventually takes possession of the wealth gathered by his Grand Vizier and other officers are many and complex. These methods are not limited to banquets or gifts but include hidden demands, forced loans, fines, and confiscations. However, such practices deserve a detailed explanation of their own.

For this reason, the discussion of these methods is set aside for another time. For now, it is enough to have explained the nature of the office of the Grand Vizier, his immense power, his great riches, and the constant dangers that surround him.

The Offices, Dignities, and Governments of the Empire

Anyone who wishes to describe the political system of a country must take great care to explain its offices, dignities, and forms of government in the most exact and careful way possible. Without this knowledge, it is impossible to understand the true strength of an empire Istanbul Private Tours.

By examining the number and nature of its offices, one can estimate how many men are employed in public service, how authority is distributed, and how loyalty is maintained. By understanding the dignities and rewards attached to these offices, one may judge how ambition is encouraged and how obedience is enforced.

Measuring Strength and Weakness

A clear account of offices and governments also allows a proper calculation of the empire’s military strength, including its armies on land and fleets at sea. It reveals where the empire is best defended and where it is most vulnerable to attack. Fortifications, naval power, and provincial administration all depend upon this system of offices.

Therefore, a careful description of these matters is not a small or unimportant task. It is the foundation upon which any true understanding of the empire’s power, stability, and future must be built.

The Vast Wealth of a Greedy Vizier

If a Grand Vizier is naturally careful with money and used to living frugally, he often decides to lose nothing of what he can gain. In such cases, his income becomes almost unbelievable. It may even equal the yearly revenue of the Grand Signior himself. Within only a few years, such a vizier can gather enormous riches and build a fortune of great size.

This wealth does not come from honest salary alone, but from gifts, bribes, and favors paid from all parts of the empire. When a man who once lived in poverty suddenly gains such power, he often becomes even more eager to collect wealth, knowing how uncertain his position is.

The Sultan’s Awareness and Political Wisdom

However, the Prince and the Ottoman political system are not ignorant of this situation. They fully understand how rich a Grand Vizier can become. For this reason, several methods are carefully designed to drain the overflowing coffers of the vizier and return much of that wealth to the imperial treasury Istanbul Private Tours.

The first method begins as soon as the vizier enters office. At that moment, large sums of money are demanded from him under various pretenses. These payments are presented as necessary duties or customary obligations attached to the honor of the office.

Visits Disguised as Friendship

Another method is carried out under the appearance of friendship and favor. The Grand Signior pays visits to the Grand Vizier, which are considered a great honor. In return, the vizier must offer rich and costly gifts as a sign of gratitude. These gifts are not optional; they are expected and carefully observed.

In addition, the Grand Signior often asks for “loans,” which are never meant to be repaid. These may amount to 100,000 dollars or more, given in the form of money, jewels, fine horses, or other valuable items.

Clever Ways to Reclaim Wealth

By these and many other clever arrangements, the wealth gathered by the Grand Vizier is slowly redirected back to the Sultan, like small rivers flowing into a great ocean. The state thus ensures that no servant, no matter how powerful, becomes richer than is safe.

An Unusual Burden Feeding the Sultan

Among these practices, Sultan Mehmed IV is said to have invented a particular method of his own. He frequently places the expense of his own meals upon the Grand Vizier. He sends to the vizier’s kitchen for twenty dishes at a time, turning even daily dining into a financial burden.

In this way, the Grand Vizier’s great wealth is never secure. Whatever he gains with one hand may be taken away with the other, reminding him that all power and riches ultimately belong to the Sultan alone.

The Official Income of the Grand Vizier

The official revenues of the Grand Vizier, which come directly from the Crown and are fixed parts of the office, are not very large. They amount to no more than about 20,000 dollars a year. This income comes from certain villages in Rumelia and is considered the lawful and regular salary of the position.

Compared to the power and danger of the office, this official income is modest. The true wealth of the Grand Vizier does not come from his salary, but from many other sources spread across the empire.

Gifts and Payments from Across the Empire

Every pasha or trusted minister who receives an appointment must first give a gift to the Grand Vizier. This offering is made to gain his approval and to secure his goodwill. Without such a gift, no official feels safe in his position.

Governors who serve in distant provinces always keep agents in the capital. These agents regularly bring presents to the Grand Vizier. Their purpose is to soften his mood and persuade him to speak well of their service to the Grand Signior. In this way, gifts become a constant flow, arriving from every corner of the empire Istanbul Private Tours.

Seasonal Offerings and Open Bargaining

Each spring, around the equinox, all pashas and major officials are required to present valuable gifts to the Grand Signior himself. At this time, the Grand Vizier also receives his share of acknowledgments and rewards.

Beyond these formal occasions, money is given to the Grand Vizier according to the nature of each request or business matter. These payments are not made in secret. On the contrary, they are often openly demanded, and the price is discussed boldly, much like a bargain in a marketplace.

Justice Treated Like Merchandise

In such a system, justice and favor become items for sale. They are traded as openly as goods in shops or markets. Offices, protections, decisions, and even judgments can be bought, just like ordinary merchandise.

If the Grand Vizier is greedy—and this is often the case with men who rise suddenly from poverty—he may take full advantage of this practice. Having once known want, such men are easily tempted by wealth and eager to secure as much as possible while their power lasts.

Wealth Gained at Great Risk

Thus, although the office of Grand Vizier is full of danger, stress, and uncertainty, it also offers immense opportunities for wealth. Riches flow toward him from all sides, but they are gained at the cost of constant fear, jealousy, and political risk. His fortune, like his power, depends entirely on favor—and can disappear just as quickly.

War as a Means of Survival for a Vizier

According to Ottoman political thought, the only likely way for a weak or unstable Prime Vizier to protect himself was to turn the attention of the Sultan and other powerful men toward a foreign war. Peace, it was believed, often spoiled men’s character. During peaceful times, people turned their energy inward, creating conflicts, rivalries, and secret plots within the state.

War, on the other hand, kept ambitious minds busy. It directed their desire for honor and fame toward military action. When men were focused on campaigns and victories, they had less time to plan treachery or political conspiracies at home. In this way, war was seen as a tool to preserve internal stability Customized Tours Istanbul.

The Example of Köprülü and His Son

It is possible that Ahmed, the son of Köprülü, followed this principle when he began the last war with Germany. Observers of his rule noted that in many matters of government, he followed the same methods and policies that his father had taught him. These rules were passed down to him not only as political advice, but almost as an inheritance.

Thus, war was not always started from ambition alone, but sometimes from fear—fear of internal danger, rebellion, or loss of favor at court.

Long Service Despite Constant Danger

Despite the unstable nature of the office, history records a few Prime Viziers who managed to hold power for as long as nineteen years. After long service, heavy responsibility, and endless worry, some even left office only by natural death.

This raises an important question: does a vizier rise or fall because of destiny and fortune, fixed at birth, or can human wisdom and careful planning create a safe path between stubborn resistance and dishonest flattery?

Fate or Wise Counsel?

Some thinkers believed that a careful balance was possible. A vizier might avoid danger by neither opposing the Sultan too boldly nor flattering him shamefully. Such a path, free from ambition and risk, was ideal—but extremely rare.

In practice, few men succeeded this way. If a vizier was evil, his cruelty and greed often brought about his fall. If he was good, his success could be just as dangerous. Great service sometimes made a ruler uncomfortable, especially when the rewards owed to such service were too large or difficult to repay.

The Paradox of Merit

History shows a tragic truth: great benefits often led not to gratitude, but to resentment. When a servant achieved too much, his very excellence could become a threat. Thus, both failure and success carried risk, and the office of Prime Vizier remained one of the most dangerous positions in the Ottoman state.

The Unstable Nature of Power among the Turks

Stories like the one just told are common among the Turks. They clearly show how men are raised by fortune and just as quickly cast down. Nowhere else in the world does greatness appear to be so uncertain and unstable as it was in the Ottoman Empire. Honor and power could rise suddenly, but they could disappear just as fast.

This constant change made high office both attractive and dangerous. Glory was never secure, and even the most capable men could not rely on long success.

A Difficult Question in Ottoman Politics

A wise Prime Vizier once raised an important question as part of a discussion with several pashas. Among many matters of state, he asked a difficult and troubling question:

“What methods can be found,” he said, “by which a First Vizier may preserve his office, continue in power, and protect himself from the dangers and uncertainty that surround this position?”

He then spoke openly and honestly to them Customized Tours Istanbul.

Few Who Grow Old in Office

“You see clearly, my brothers,” he said, “how few men grow old in this office. Neither virtue, nor care, nor innocence can protect them. Some remain in power only a single day, some a week, some a month. A few last a year or two, but in the end they all fall.”

He compared their fate to an old proverb: they were like ants to whom God gives wings, not to save them, but to speed their destruction. Their rise only made their fall quicker and more painful.

Silence among the Pashas

After hearing these words, the pashas remained silent for a long time. They did not know how to answer such a difficult question. Each man understood the truth of what had been said, yet none could easily offer a solution.

The danger of the office was well known to all of them. Any answer might seem foolish or dishonest.

The Wisdom of Köprülü

At last, Köprülü, who was then the most senior pasha and perhaps the wisest among them, spoke. His later actions would prove the depth of his wisdom.

He said that in his opinion, the only way for a Prime Vizier to remain safe was to act with justice, restraint, and humility. He must avoid pride, refuse corruption, and not create unnecessary enemies. Above all, he must serve the Sultan faithfully, while never forgetting how fragile his position truly was.

A Lesson from Ottoman History

This discussion shows the deep understanding Ottoman statesmen had of power and its dangers. High office brought honor, but also fear and uncertainty. Even the wisest men knew that success depended as much on fortune as on skill.

Thus, the history of the Prime Viziers stands as a lesson: greatness is never secure, and power borrowed from another can never truly be owned.

Complaints Against Corrupt Officers

The dervish continued his complaint by saying that the officers responsible for public order were careless and negligent in correcting these small but harmful disorders. They were not concerned with the needs of ordinary people. Instead, they were fully occupied with enriching themselves and serving their own interests.

He said openly that if he himself were the Prime Vizier, he would make sure that there was plenty of meat in the city. Not only would there be enough supply, but meat would be available at all times of the day for anyone who needed it. He then turned to the stranger and asked what good it was for either of them to speak about these matters. What benefit, he asked, would the stranger gain by listening, and what relief could he himself expect from punishment by repeating his troubles to someone who had no power to help him?

The Sultan Reflects in Secret

After this encounter, the Grand Signior returned quietly to his palace. He thought deeply about the words spoken by the Janissaries’ cook. He considered whether the man truly possessed ability and judgment, or whether Providence had arranged this meeting for a reason. He also reflected on the fact that rulers sometimes take pleasure in raising great men from nothing, simply to show the extent of their power Customized Tours Istanbul.

Whatever his true reason, the Sultan made a sudden decision.

A Fearful Summons

He immediately sent for the dervish. When the man arrived at the palace and realized whom he had spoken to so freely in the street, he was filled with fear. Trembling, he threw himself at the Sultan’s feet. He believed that his bold words against the Vizier and the government would now cost him his life.

But the outcome was very different from what he expected.

An Astonishing Rise to Power

The Sultan kindly told him to set aside his fear. He then declared that he had decided to make him Prime Vizier, in order to test whether he could truly correct the abuses he had complained about. However, to preserve the proper order of advancement, the Sultan did not raise him at once to the highest office.

First, he made him chief of the royal chamber. The next day, he appointed him captain, then shortly afterward Aga, or General, of the Janissaries. From there, in a single step, he elevated him to the position of Grand Vizier.

A Capable and Successful Minister

Once in power, the new Vizier quickly corrected the abuses in the meat markets, just as he had promised. He ensured fair supply and proper management. More than this, he proved himself to be a wise and excellent minister of state, showing that ability and honesty could sometimes be found in the most humble positions.

A Lesson from the Story

Though such examples are rare, this story clearly shows how, in the Ottoman world, talent could rise suddenly, and how fortune could change a man’s life in a single moment.

A Humble Man in Trouble

Among those affected by the shortage of meat was a dervish, who worked as a cook for a chamber of Janissaries. His duty was to prepare meals for the soldiers, and he knew very well the punishment he would face if he failed. The chief officer of the chamber was strict, and any neglect or delay was punished severely.

Because of his lack of care or simple bad luck, the entire company of Janissaries would have to go without their dinner that day. This placed the cook in great danger, and fear quickly turned into anger.

Public Complaints in the Streets

Filled with frustration, the dervish walked through the streets shouting loudly. He openly accused the authorities of poor government and complained that no care was taken to correct such common abuses. He cursed the principal officers and blamed them for allowing disorder in the markets.

His cries attracted attention, and many people heard his angry words. He was no longer thinking carefully but spoke openly from pain and fear, knowing what awaited him if the soldiers went hungry Customized Tours Istanbul.

A Stranger’s Question

By chance, at that very moment, the Grand Signior himself passed by in disguise. Seeing a man in such emotional distress, the Sultan approached him politely and asked the reason for his anger.

The dervish answered sharply. He said it was useless for the stranger to ask questions or for him to explain his troubles, because the man before him could offer no remedy. Only the Grand Signior, he said, had enough power to correct such wrongs.

The Truth Revealed

After much urging, the dervish finally explained the problem. He spoke of the great abuses in the butchers’ shops, saying that the meat markets were badly managed. He explained that he had missed the usual portion of meat that morning for the Janissaries’ chamber and described the punishment he was likely to suffer for arriving even a moment late.

He went on to say that the Vizier and other high officers failed in their duty. According to him, they did not properly supervise the markets or protect ordinary workers from unjust punishment.

A Moment of Fate

This honest and emotional complaint, spoken by a humble man, reached the ears of the most powerful ruler in the empire. Though the dervish did not yet know it, this moment would soon lead to great changes.

The story shows how, in the Ottoman world, even the voice of a poor cook could reach the throne when injustice became clear. It also reminds us that chance encounters sometimes shaped history in unexpected ways.