The Seljuks primarily spoke Turkish, reflecting their origins as a major Turkic dynasty that significantly shaped the history of the Middle East and Anatolia.
The Seljuks: A Turkic Linguistic Heritage
Originating from the Oghuz Turks, the Seljuk dynasty's native tongue was an early form of Turkish. As they expanded their empire across vast territories, from Central Asia to Anatolia, their language accompanied their conquests and cultural influence. While Persian became a prominent language for administration and literature in certain parts of their empire due to the established Persianate bureaucratic traditions they adopted, Turkish remained the language of the ruling elite and the broader Turkic population.
Turkish: From Spoken to Official Language
The use of Turkish among the Seljuks was not merely colloquial; it also held importance within the ruling circles. Records indicate that some of the sultans of the Anatolian Seljuks, who established a powerful state in modern-day Turkey, actively spoke Turkish. This practice paved the way for a significant linguistic policy change within their domain.
Milestones in Seljuk Language Policy
A pivotal moment in the history of the Seljuk language occurred in 1277. During this year, the Seljuk State Council made a landmark decision, formally accepting Turkish as the official language of the state. This move was particularly impactful for the Anatolian Seljuks, solidifying Turkish not only as a spoken language among the rulers and people but also as the designated language for governmental affairs and administration. This historical development is a testament to the enduring presence and eventual official recognition of Turkish within the Seljuk realm.
This acceptance of Turkish as the official language in 1277 underscored its integral role in the Seljuk state's identity and its lasting legacy in the region's linguistic landscape. For more information on the Seljuks and their language, refer to historical studies on the topic available through reputable academic sources.
