of religion. In the face of the circulation of many new ideas from Europe, this was coupled with uncertainty and confusion as to religion and its role. It is in this light that Bediuzzaman's enormous concern to address the intellectuals and to educate as many people as he could reach from all levels of society about the true meaning of Freedom, constitutionalism, and the vital role of Islam in progress should be seen.

#### "Europe is pregnant with Islam

"Europe is pregnant with Islam"

In the autumn of 1908, one of the leading members of the famous al-Azhar University in Cairo, and at one time Grand Mufti of Egypt, Shaykh Muhammad Bakhit [^154] visited Istanbul. The Istanbul 'ulema, who themselves had been unable to better Bediuzzaman in argument and debate, asked Shaykh Bakhit if he would be prepared to meet him. The shaykh accepted, and an opportunity was found one day after the prayers in Aya Sophia. Bediuzzaman was seated in a tea-house. Other 'ulema also being present, Shaykh Bakhit approached Bediuzzaman, and put the following question to him:

[^154]:For further biographical details of Shaykh Bakhit, d. 1935, see Şahiner, Son Şahitler, iv, 363-4.

"What is your opinion concerning Freedom and the Ottoman State, and European civilization?"

Bediuzzaman's unhesitating reply revealed his realism and insight.

"The Ottoman State is pregnant with Europe, and it will give birth to a European state one day. And Europe is pregnant with Islam; one day it will give birth to an Islamic state,"

Shaykh Bakhit applauded this answer:

"One cannot argue with this young man", he said. "I am of the same opinion myself. But only Bediuzzaman could express it so succinctly and eloquently." [^155]

[^155]:Tarihçe, 49-50; Nursi, Emirdağ Lahikası, i, 108; Şahiner, Said Nursi, 105-6.

#### Bediuzzaman Maintains Public Order

Bediuzzaman Maintains Public Order

As the great effusion of optimism at the coming of Freedom was transformed into disillusion and views and parties became more polarized, the situation generally became increasingly volatile and unstable. Thus, so that constitutionalism could become established and its benefits be obtained, Bediuzzaman did whatever he could to maintain public order and harmony. There are many examples, such as the following.