An evaluation of language philosophy of Yunus Emre and Mevlana

¹ Near East University, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Turkish Language and Literature, Nicosia - 99138, North Cyprus
² Near East University, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Turkish Language and Literature, Nicosia - 99138, North Cyprus

^* Corresponding author: esra.karabacak@neu.edu.tr

Abstract

Philosophers express, share with other people and convey them their opinions through language. We can define language as a system of symbols which is used for expressing any mental activity and its transfer from one mind to another. Language plays an essential role in the spreading and sharing of philosophy. Language is an essential tool of communication for conveying opinions. As Mevlana stated, “no matter how much you know, what you say is not more than what others understand.” Mevlana’s poems, his poetry and the meanings he added to statements and words are very important for literature and its history. What is the place of literary works in language philosophy in Turkish literature? This is worth examining. Words have gained new meanings and their meanings extended to abstractions as a result of certain developments in the poetry tradition in the East. Likewise, the philosophical dimension of language can be solved based on the works of poets and authors who are considered as close to each other. Yunus Emre emphasized the supremacy of meaning and valuelessness of material things which integrated carrying the load of Islamic Sufism. Scientists who study Yunus Emre claim that he widely read and internalized the poems of poets who came before him. In addition to the general style characteristics of the poet, he also has some peculiar features. Choosing examples from the poems of Mevlana and Yunus Emre, evaluations will be made in terms of language and philosophy which will explore similar characteristics.