Haci Ahmed b. Seyyid al-Bigavî and Tarjama al-Awārif al-maārif (sections of 22-43)

Hacı Ahmed b. Seyyid al-Bigavî, a prominent 15th-century scholar of the Ottoman era, translated the significant sufi classic Awārif al-maārif by Ebû Hafs Şihâbeddin Ömer es-Sühreverdî (d. 632/1234) into Turkish, making it the first and only known Turkish translation of the work. Awārif al-maārif, addressing the compatibility of sufism with sharia, reflecting its practical aspects, and describing the etiquette and rituals of sufi lodges, consists of sixty-three sections. Hacı Ahmed b. Seyyid al-Bigavî translated this influential work as Tarjama al-Awārif al-maārif presenting it for the benefit of those who did not know Arabic, becoming a key reference in intellectual circles and sufi lodges. In his work, he utilized contemporary exegesis and hadith sources, interpreting some sections additionally, and supported the narrative with excerpts from sufi sources. This study delves into Hacı Ahmed Bigavî's life, works, and his translation mentioned in the context of his sufi path. The latinized analysis of the 22nd and 43nd chapters of the translation is presented, evaluating Hacı Ahmed Bigavî's contributions in line with his own doctrines. Furthermore, an understanding of Sühreverdî and the perception of Awārif is outlined in light of expressions in Tarjama al-Awārif al-maārif the aim is to provide a closer insight into Hacı Ahmed Bigavî and his work. Emphasis is placed on understanding the main principles highlighted in his translation, aiming to reveal Hacı Ahmed Bigavî's thoughts, especially in the areas he addressed. Bigavî, who brought the translation of this crucial work into Turkish literature, is portrayed as a humble, knowledgeable figure respected and trusted in scholarly and sufi circles. Like other sufis of his time, he views Sühreverdî and his work as a unique guide leading sufis on the path of divine inspiration and discoveries.