Mulazamet defters as the source for studying the ulema

Abstract

In this work, the author discusses the problem of mulazemet/training period in the Ottoman school system on the basis of the so called mulazemet defters which are kept in the Archive of the Istanbul muftiluk in Turkey. In that context, special attention is given to the data regarding graduates of our origin, those from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sanjak, Kosovo and Macedonia. They are mentioned in the defters under their pseudonyms al-Bosnevi, as- Sarayi, al-Mostari, al-Manastiri. Their names are also given with a following indication of their origin Saraybosnadan (from Sarajevo), Akhisardan (from Prusac), etc. Most of them were appointed mulazims in eminent medresas in Istanbul or other centers, in order to become well-known muderrises, qadis or other officials. This work States basic facts regarding the medresa and the muderrises to whom they were appointed as assistants and it also gives ali other facts that could show the meaning and significance of their entering the class of the ulema. In the period from 1018/1619 to 1214/1799 thare were about 40 graduates mentioned in the records.