#### Young Said's Independence

Young Said's Independence

At that time in eastern Anatolia any scholar who had completed the course of study in a medrese and could demonstrate his mastery of the subjects obtained his diploma (icazet), and could then open a medrese in a village of his choice. If he was able, he would himself meet the needs of the students, such as food, heating and clothing, and if he was not able, they were met by the villagers either through zakat or some other way. The teacher asked for no payment for his teaching,

Young Said would in no way accept zakat or alms. To accept assistance meant becoming obliged to others, and he felt that to be an unbearable burden on his spirit.

One day, his fellow students went to the neighbouring villages to collect zakat, but Said did not accompany them. The villagers were impressed by this and appreciative of his independence so themselves collected a sum of money and tried to give it to him. But Said thanked them and refused it. so they gave it to Molla Abdullah in the hope that he would persuade him to accept it. The following exchange then ensued:

Said said: "Buy me a rifle with the money!"

Molla Abdullah: "No, that is not possible."

"Well, in that case, get me a revolver."

"No, that is not possible, either."

So, smiling, Said said: "Well, get me a dagger, then."

At which his elder brother laughed and said: "No, neither is that possible. I'll only buy you some grapes; then we will make sure the matter remains sweet!" [^16]

[^16]:Ibid., 51-2.

#### Said Dreams of the Prophet (PBUH

Said Dreams of the Prophet (PBUH)

That winter Said spent in Nurse In the course of it, he had a powerful dream which impelled him to return to his studies. It was like this: it was the Last Day and the Resurrection was taking place. Said felt a desire to visit the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). While wondering how he could achieve this, it occurred to him to go and sit by the Bridge of Sirat, because everyone has to pass over it. While the Prophet is passing, he thought, I shall meet him and kiss his hand, So he went and sat by the Bridge and there met with all the prophets and kissed their hands. Finally, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) came. Said kissed his hands and asked for knowledge from him. The Prophet (PBUH) said: "Knowledge of the Qur'an will be