The Hagia Sophia has been a symbol of Istanbul since its construction in the 6th century. It has been a church, a mosque, and now it is once again a mosque, after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan signed a decree in July 2020, reversing its status as a museum. This move has been met with mixed reactions from the international community, and it has stirred up a debate about the role of religion in modern society.

Hagia Sophia’s History

The Hagia Sophia was first built as a church in 537 AD under the rule of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. It was one of the most important churches in the Eastern Orthodox world, and it served as the imperial cathedral of Constantinople until the Ottoman conquest in 1453. The Hagia Sophia was then converted into a mosque, and it served as the main mosque of Istanbul until the early 20th century.

In 1935, the Hagia Sophia was secularized by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey, and it was opened as a museum. Since then, it has been a popular tourist attraction and an important symbol of Turkish culture and history.

Reaction to Erdogan’s Decision

Erdogan’s decision to convert the Hagia Sophia back into a mosque has been met with criticism from some members of the international community. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has expressed concern that the move could affect the status of the Hagia Sophia as a World Heritage site. Some religious leaders have also expressed concern, arguing that the decision could fuel religious tensions in the region.

The Debate About Religion and Society

Erdogan’s decision has sparked a debate about the role of religion in modern society. Supporters of the move argue that it is a necessary step to protect the cultural and religious identity of Turkey. They also argue that the Hagia Sophia is a symbol of Turkish culture and history, and that it should remain a place of worship. Opponents of the move argue that it is a political decision and that it could lead to further religious divisions in the region.

Conclusion

The debate about Erdogan’s decision to convert the Hagia Sophia back into a mosque has highlighted the ongoing tensions between religion and modern society. It has also highlighted the importance of protecting cultural and religious identities in a diverse and complex world. Only time will tell if Erdogan’s decision will lead to greater religious harmony or further division.