Donme

Donme refers to a group of crypto-Jews in the Ottoman Empire and its successor states. The term "Donme" is derived from the Ottoman Turkish word for "apostate" or "convert," and it specifically denotes the followers of Sabbatai Zevi, a 17th-century Jewish mystic who proclaimed himself the Messiah.

Sabbatai Zevi's messianic claims gained widespread popularity among many Jewish communities. However, in 1666, he was arrested by the Ottoman authorities and given the choice between execution or conversion to Islam. Zevi chose conversion, a decision that deeply shocked and divided his followers. A significant number of his disciples, rather than abandoning their belief in Zevi, followed him in outwardly converting to Islam while secretly maintaining their adherence to Sabbatean beliefs and practices. These followers became known as the Donme.

The Donme formed a distinct community, often living in separate quarters of cities like Salonica (now Thessaloniki), Istanbul, and Izmir. While outwardly practicing Islam, they maintained their own religious rituals, interpretations of Jewish scripture, and a belief in Zevi's divine mission. Their dual identity created a unique cultural and religious milieu. Over time, many Donme assimilated into the broader Turkish society, particularly after the establishment of the Republic of Turkey. Today, the distinct Donme community is largely considered to have dissolved, with its members integrated into the Muslim population. However, the history of the Donme remains a significant and complex chapter in the religious and social history of the Ottoman Empire and modern Turkey.