Exile and Its Execution in The Ottoman Empire

Abstract

The practice of exile, a form of punishment as ancient as human history, has been prevalent in numerous societies, including pre-Islamic Turkic states and the Ottoman Empire. In Islamic law, this punishment held significant importance, being imposed for a variety of offenses such as banditry, disturbing public order, disobedience, insults and threats, bribery and fraud, adultery, prostitution, slander, false testimony, writing inappropriate letters, and theft. Exile took multiple forms, including imprisonment in fortresses, dungeons, palanka (small forts), monasteries, and galley slavery. The process of executing exile involved key elements such as the authority responsible for imposing the sentence, the individuals tasked with carrying it out, the location and duration of the exile, and the potential for the exiled person to commit further offenses. Exile could be terminated by the death of the exiled individual, a change in the location of exile, a pardon, or the revelation of false accusation. The Ottoman Empire exhibited a meticulous approach to the practice, ensuring that the choice of exile location was strategic, often avoiding exile outside the empire. The punishment served not only to uphold public order but also to maintain accountability within the ruling class. By integrating this multifaceted practice into its legal system, the Ottoman Empire demonstrated a nuanced approach to justice and rehabilitation, reflecting broader social and political objectives. This article delves into the historical development of exile in the Ottoman context, its legal foundations, and its implementation across various offenses and social strata.