Fethullah Gulen

“Throughout my life, I have publicly and privately denounced military interventions in domestic politics. In fact, I have been advocating for democracy for decades.”

“I have never imagined being or wished to be chosen as something important in the world.”

“Turkey is a diverse country... I think that democracy is the ideal system for a country with a social foundation such as this. My view is based on my belief that everyone should be able to comfortably live what they believe, and this is only possible in a truly democratic environment. I am insistent in my views and I strongly believe in what I say.”

“Studying physics, mathematics, and chemistry is worshipping God.”

“Islam's basic principles of belief, worship, morality, and behavior are not affected by changing times. Islam does not propose a certain unchangeable form of government or attempt to shape it. Islam has never offered nor established a theocracy in its name.”

“My core belief is to seek peace in the world, helping people eliminate certain malevolent attitudes through education as much as possible.”

“I've never sought to be known or recognized by people.”

“A Turkey under a dictatorial regime, providing haven to violent radicals and pushing its Kurdish citizens into desperation, would be a nightmare for Middle East security.”

“We will never be a part of any plot against those who are governing our country.”

“I simply share ideas I believe in with people around me.”

“It is possible that people who share core values will make choices along the same lines.”

“Profiling any segment of society and viewing them as a threat is a sign of intolerance.”

“Under any circumstances, if I had to return to Turkey and face the gallows, I will not blink an eye.”

“Regardless of their religious observance, citizens can and should unite around universal human rights and freedoms, and democratically oppose those who violate them.”

“No citizen or social group can be completely isolated from politics, because policy decisions and actions affect their lives.”

“Telling or encouraging people to vote for a party would be an insult to peoples' intellect.”

“The principles and form of government that form the basis of democracy are compatible with Islamic values.”

“My philosophy - inclusive and pluralist Islam, dedicated to service to human beings from every faith - is antithetical to armed rebellion.”

“The noble position of motherhood aside, our general opinion about women is that, while taking into account their specific needs, it should be made possible for them to take on every role, including the jobs of physician, military officer, judge and president of a country.”

“I probably will not live to see Turkey become an exemplary democracy, but I pray that the downward authoritarian drift can be stopped before it is too late.”