An Evaluation of Ruler-Ruled Relations in the Perspective of Siyasatnamas

The term "siyasatnama" is used to describe didactic works written in both prose and verse that provide guidance to rulers and state officials on the principles of administration. The siyasatnamas, which reflect a diverse geographical range from Andalusia-Maghreb to Transoxiana, provide a comprehensive account of the administrative relationship between the ruler and the ruled. The authors of siyasatnamas anticipated the categorization of the ruled, enabling the ruler to identify and administrate those under his authority. The works posit that the people should reflect the rulers and that rulers should reflect the people. They also emphasize that both the rulers and the ruled have rights over each other. The siyasatnamas emphasize the importance of not oppressing the ruled, maintaining constant communication with them and meeting their needs. They demonstrate the sustainability of these relationships and how the ruler can dominate the ruled masses. In this context, ensuring balance in the relationship between the ruler and the ruled is of great importance in administration processes.