Sheikh Abdülhakim Arvasi

Abdülhakim Arvasi

Abdülhakim Arvasi (1865–1943) was a prominent Islamic scholar, Sufi sheikh, and spiritual leader of the Naqshbandi-Khalidi order. Born in Başkale, in the Van Province of the Ottoman Empire, he belonged to the well-known Arvasi family, a lineage of religious scholars and sayyids who traced their ancestry to the Prophet Muhammad. Arvasi became one of the most influential religious figures in eastern Anatolia during the transition from the Ottoman Empire to the Republic of Turkey.

Early Life and Education

Arvasi received his initial education from his father, Seyyid Mustafa Efendi, and local scholars. He later pursued advanced studies in prominent madrasas across eastern Anatolia and Kurdistan, gaining expertise in Islamic jurisprudence, hadith, Qur’anic exegesis, logic, and other traditional Islamic sciences. In 1882, he received authorization (ijazah) from Seyyid Fehim Arvasi, one of the leading figures of the Khalidi branch of the Naqshbandi order.

Religious and Educational Activities

After completing his studies, Arvasi returned to Başkale, where he established a madrasa and a large library. For many years, he taught students from across the region and gained a reputation as both a respected scholar and a spiritual guide. His teachings combined traditional Islamic scholarship with Sufi spirituality, attracting disciples and visitors from various parts of eastern Anatolia.

World War I and Move to Istanbul

During World War I, the Russian advance into eastern Anatolia forced Arvasi to leave his homeland. After spending time in Mosul and other locations, he eventually settled in Istanbul. There, he became a highly regarded religious authority, teaching at the Fatih Mosque and participating in intellectual and spiritual circles. His influence expanded significantly during this period, making him one of the leading Sufi scholars of his generation.

The Arvasi Family

Abdülhakim Arvasi was a member of the distinguished Arvasi family, which produced numerous scholars, muftis, and spiritual leaders throughout eastern Anatolia. His brother, Ziyâeddin Arvasi, served as the Mufti of Başkale. The family’s influence extended across the Van region and neighboring Kurdish territories for several generations.

Legacy

Arvasi is regarded as one of the foremost representatives of the Khalidi branch of the Naqshbandi order in the twentieth century. His teachings and spiritual guidance left a lasting impact on Turkish Islamic thought and Sufi communities. Through his students and followers, his intellectual and spiritual legacy continued long after his death.

Death and Burial

Abdülhakim Arvasi died in Ankara in 1943. He was buried in Bağlum, north of the Turkish capital. His tomb remains a place of remembrance and visitation for admirers, students, and members of the Naqshbandi tradition.