One day, some 'ulema were debating a subject in the courtyard of Fatih Mosque, but they could in no way convince one another and solve the question. The subject did not become clear and evident at all. The debate continued. At that point, Bediuzzaman appeared dressed in simple and humble clothes, with a shawl, and fur cap on his head. I recognized him and knew of his knowledge on scholarly matters, so I observed the situation and listened.

Bediuzzaman said to the scholars: "What is this matter you are discussing? May I know? Would you please tell me?"

Seeing his humble dress, the scholars replied: "See here, shepherd efendi! You would not understand these matters. Off with you and attend to your own business !"

Bediuzzaman was not the least offended at this. He learnt what the matter was, then explained and solved it so beautifully with verses from the Qur'an and Hadiths that everyone's mouths dropped open in amazement. All those religious scholars were completely convinced of the subject. He explained the verses so masterfully that it was as though he had been at the Prophet's (PBUH) side when they had been revealed. And the scholars declared: "Your years are few, but your knowledge is great. Allow us to kiss your hand."

Bediuzzaman replied: 'There is need for that', and took his leave in a most modest and unobtrusive manner. [^91]

[^91]:Şahiner, Son Şahitler, iv, 356.

#### Proposals for Educational Reform

Proposals for Educational Reform

Some months after arriving in Istanbul Bediuzzaman was successful in presenting a petition setting out his ideas for educational reform in the Eastern Provinces to the court of Sultan Abdulhamid. The text was later printed in The East and Kurdistan Gazette, dated 19 November, 1908. However, as the paper's introduction to the article points out, Bediuzzaman's initiative was to have unhappy consequences. In the short time he had been in Istanbul, he had attracted a lot of attention, both favourable, and as far as the authorities were concerned, adverse. As was inevitable during those repressive times, being such a controversial figure, he was kept under close surveillance. [^92] He had also attracted the enmity of others in the same profession, jealous at his learning and fame. Bediuzzaman, however, had one aim: to serve the cause of Islam and the Empire, and he knew no fear in doing this. It is not known what passed between him and the pashas of the Palace Secretariat, but his implied criticism of the

[^92]:Ali Riza Sağman, in Son Şahitler, iv, 294-5.