Elkas Mirza İsyanı

Abstract

The rebellion movement initiated by Shah Ismail's son, Elkas Mirza, against the Safavid State and his elder brother, spread to a large geography in a short time. The rebellion of Elkas Mirza was also a rebellion against the religious foundations of the Safavid State. Because the central shah of the state and one of the highest positions held by the shah was Murshid-i Kamil. Therefore, to oppose the shah, that is, the Murshid-i Kamil, was also to oppose religious values. This act was considered a great sin. Elkas Mirza's rebellion by taking all these into consideration and taking refuge in the Ottoman Empire caused a war between the two states. The fact that the Ottoman Empire had an opportunity like Elkas Mirza against the Safavid Empire, which it had been fighting for years, increased the Ottomans' desire for a campaign. At the same time, the expedition was becoming inevitable as the promises of Elkas Mirza that all Safavid lords would be subordinate to him increased the probability of success. However, the failure of Elkas Mirza's promises and the consequences of this started the process of breaking away from the Ottoman Empire. Besides, although Elkas Mirza rebelled and hoped to be supported by the Qizilbash, the fact that they did not give up their loyalty and devotion to Shah Tahmasb shows the absolute position of Shah Tahmasb in the country. In addition, the attitude of Shah Tahmasb towards his brothers requires re-examination of the rebellion. The rebellion of Elkas Mirza in response to Shah Tahmasb's loving and protective attitude towards his brothers and close circles constitutes another dimension of the event. Thus, this first multidimensional and wide revolt of the Safavid Dynasty resulted in the death of Elkas Mirza.