ABSTRACT: Contemporary Turkish Islamic scholar, Fethullah Gülen, states that the world is in need of Islam and Islam is in need of representation or “tamsil”. He believes that people’s ears are full but their eyes are hungry for role models in all areas of life, including educational institutions. In his philosophy, representation comes before communication or “tabligh”. When referring to “tamsil”, Fethullah Gülen uses the term “Hasani ruh” or the spirit of Hasan, grandson of Prophet Muhammad SAW (peace be upon him). Hasan (radiallahu anh) symbolizes a loved leader who sacrifices for the peace, security, and good of people while striving to prevent conflict and bloodshed in the Muslim world. In Fethullah Gülen’s works, “Hasani ruh” refers to being altruistic, trustworthy, peaceful, and devoted to the service of humanity. I will examine the concept of “Hasani ruh” and explore the altruism of teachers as seen in the time they devote and financial support they give to the educational institutions established by Fethullah Gülen’s followers in the state of Victoria in Australia.

KEY WORDS: Fethullah Gülen’s works, representation, “Hasani ruh”, altruism of teachers, and Gülen-inspired school in Victoria.

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About the Author: Dr. Salih Yucel is a Lecturer at the School of Philosophical, Historical, and International Studies, Centre for Studies in Religion and Theology MU (Monash University), Clayton Campus, Victoria, Australia 3800. The author can be reached at: salih.yucel@monash.edu

How to cite this article? Yucel, Salih. (2011). “Spiritual Role Models in Fethullah Gülen’s Educational Philosophy” in TAWARIKH: International Journal for Historical Studies, Vol.3(1) October, pp.65-76. Bandung, Indonesia: ASPENSI [Asosiasi Sarjana Pendidikan Sejarah Indonesia] and UVRI [Universitas Veteran Republik Indonesia], ISSN 2085-0980.

Chronicle of the article: Accepted (August 11, 2011); Revised (September 17, 2011); and Published (October 28, 2011).

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