Ottoman's traditions

The Ottoman Empire had 4 basic traditions, that were key to their success.

The Gaza
A tradition of holy war against non-Muslims for the purpose of expanding the domains of Islam. This was one of the reasons that led to the origin of the Ottoman Empire.

Local Customs
They allowed the communities to have religious freedom, their own education, legal system and customs. And, as long as they payed the jizay –a community tax where each individual would pay it to their community and the community itself would pay it to the Ottoman state– they would get protection by the Ottoman Government.

Urban Islamic Civilisation
A court tradition where the monarch served as a patron of scholars, and a belief that rulers need to enforce Islamic laws and values. Implemented shari’ah and established an Islamic legal system.

Division of society into rulers (askeri) and ruled (reaya)
Hierarchy of the Ottoman state (top to bottom): There was also a religious separation:
 * Sultans
 * He was also the Caliph – the leader of the Islamic religion –.
 * The Ruling Elite ( Askeri )
 * 2 important positions :
 * Grand Vizier, that was like a Prime Minister
 * Sheij ül Islam, the head of the religious establishment.
 * They were tax exempted.
 * Their roles were to achieve stability and maintain security for the Reaya.
 * 3 major groups:
 * Military
 * Janissaries infantry corps: a slave army that was paid regular salaries on duty at all times. They were forbidden to marry or engage in trade. They were also forced to convert to Muslim.
 * Civil Service
 * Religious establishment
 * The Ruled ( Reaya )
 * Their roles were to bring wealth to the empire and pay the taxes.
 * Muslims
 * Zimis – non-Muslims –.