Kadi Burhan al-Din

Kadi Burhan al-Din, born in the year one thousand three hundred forty-five, was a distinguished Turcoman poet, scholar, and statesman. Initially serving as a qadi, or Islamic judge, he later became the vizier to the Eretnid rulers of Anatolia. His political acumen led him to seize control of the Eretnid lands in one thousand three hundred eighty-one, where he boldly claimed the title of sultan for himself.

Throughout his reign, Kadi Burhan al-Din fiercely defended the independence of his principality, engaging in an eighteen-year struggle against formidable adversaries such as the Ottomans, Mamluks, Karamanids, and Aq Qoyunlu. His literary contributions are noteworthy; he composed poetry in a Turkic language closely related to modern Azerbaijani Turkic, and his divan is celebrated as the first of its kind in this language.

In addition to his Turkic poetry, he also wrote in Persian and Arabic, showcasing his scholarly depth and commitment to Islamic law. His influence is profound, as he is recognized as one of the founders of modern Azerbaijani and Turkish literature, significantly shaping the evolution of poetry in the Azerbaijani Turkic language.

In a testament to his lasting legacy, on May seventh, two thousand nineteen, Kadi Burhan al-Din was officially recognized by the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan, with his works declared state property, ensuring that his contributions to literature and culture are preserved for future generations.