'ulema state." In the same way, among the students, "public opinion" or the prevalent ideas emerging from debate and the exchange of ideas between students of varying disciplines should be taken as master. Bediuzzaman predicted that this would provide a strong stimulation and incentive for progress. Thus, "Just as public opinion predominates in the state, so too should the prevailing opinions of the 'ulema be müfti, and the prevailing opinions of the students be master and teacher." [^102]

[^102]:Nursi, "Bediüzzaman Kürdi'nin Fihriste-i Makasıdı ve Efkârının Programı," Volkan, Nos. 83-4, in Asar-ı Bedi'iyye, 374.

Years later, Bediuzzaman wrote: "Born in the village of Nurs in the province of Bitlis, as a student I entered into contests with all the scholars I encountered, and continuing through Divine Grace to defeat in scholarly debate all who challenged me, I continued the contests in this calamitous fame, and as a result of the incitements of my rivals, on orders from Sultan Hamid, was dragged as far as the mental hospital." [^103]

[^103]:Nursi, The Rays Collection (Eng. tr.), 493.

#### Toptaşı and the 'Conversation with the Doctor'

Toptaşı and the 'Conversation with the Doctor'

How long Bediuzzaman's tribulations in the mental hospital continued is not known, but finally he was released on the strength of the doctor's report, which stated: "If there is the tiniest trace of madness in Bediuzzaman, there is not a sane person in the world."

Of the doubtless many examinations which Bediuzzaman had to undergo in the hospital, the following is the text of his conversation with the doctor which contributed directly to the favourable report. In it he explains with this usual clarity and logic his aims and intentions, and why he has aroused opposition in Istanbul.

First of all Bediuzzaman points out to the doctor four points he should take into account while making his diagnosis. Firstly is his background, for "the prevalent virtues in Kurdistan are courage, self-respect, strength of religion, and the agreement of heart and tongue. Matters which are considered to be polite and refined in civilization are considered by them to be flattery."

Secondly, the doctor should not make his judgement superficially according to current deviant norms, but should realize that Bediuzzaman takes Islam as the criterion for his actions through which he intends to serve the nation, state, and religion. Thirdly, Bediuzzaman points out that some of those in authority could not stomach him because he provided