Mustafa Kemal Ataturk - The Father of The Turks On His Dislike For Islam

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, held complex and often critical views on Islam, especially regarding its role in governance and its relationship to modernity. Here are a few of his well-known quotes that reflect his thoughts on Islam, religion, and secularism:

1. On religion and modernity:

   "In the face of knowledge, science, and the whole extent of radiant civilization, I cannot accept a miraculous revelation... I have no religion, and at times I wish all religions at the bottom of the sea."

   This quote reflects Atatürk’s view that traditional religious beliefs should not interfere with Turkey’s progress toward a more secular, rational society.

2. On the need for a secular state:

   "Religion is a matter of conscience. One is free to believe in what one wishes, to worship or not to worship. We must respect religion, but we must also bring religion and religious institutions within the fold of the law."

   Atatürk advocated for secularism, believing that religion should be a private matter and not dictate public policy or governance.

3. On Islam and progress:

   "The evils which we suffer in our national life are not due solely to misgovernment; they arise, in large part, from the misinterpretation of Islam and its devaluation by a narrow and dogmatic spirit."

   Here, Atatürk criticizes the way Islam was used to limit intellectual and social progress, seeing it as a barrier to modernization if misinterpreted or controlled by conservative elements.

4. On science versus religious dogma:

   "Our true mentor in life is science."

   Though not directly mentioning Islam, this quote implies his belief in reason and science as guiding principles for Turkey, as opposed to religious dogma.

5. On his vision for Turkey's future:

   "The foundation of our new government is culture and civilization. We shall advance in all aspects of civilization with determination, and we shall sever all the ties that bind us to the outdated ideas and dogmas of the past."

   Atatürk was dedicated to creating a modern, secular Turkey, emphasizing a break from past traditions he saw as incompatible with his vision of a progressive nation.

These quotes underscore Atatürk’s commitment to secularism and his belief that Turkey’s advancement required an embrace of science and modern ideas over traditional religious structures. He saw secularism as essential to Turkey's independence and as a way to unify the country around national identity rather than religious affiliation.