Dear readers,

    The year 2024 has brought an irreplaceable loss to our academic community. We bid farewell to Prof. Dr. Eşref Buharalı, one of the unforgettable figures of the Faculty of Language, History, and Geography, whose contributions to Turkish historiography remain etched in memory, and whose grace and elegance left an indelible mark on our hearts. He was not only a historian but a monument of humanity. His gentleness, kindness, and deep sensitivity have left profound impressions on all of us.

    Born in Kirkuk and continuing his journey in Ankara, Prof. Dr. Eşref Buharalı devoted his life to the cause of Turkishness, earning love and respect with his scholarly work and personal virtues. Opening his eyes to the rich cultural fabric of Kirkuk, he led a life imbued with a longing for his Türkmen identity and Kirkuk. Spending his childhood in this ancient city, where Türkmen traditions were vividly alive, he migrated to Turkey with his family at a young age. Turkey became his second homeland, shaping his academic career and deepening his awareness of Turkishness, while Kirkuk remained a bittersweet memory throughout his life.

    Prof. Dr. Buharalı’s connection to Kirkuk was profound. Every conversation about his childhood there resonated with a sense of longing. For him, the orchards, gardens, and childhood memories of Kirkuk were not merely elements of a homeland but echoes of a paradise lost. The devastation of Kirkuk at the hands of oppressors always plunged him into deep sorrow, a sentiment he expressed throughout his life.

    His academic career began in 1981 as an assistant in the Department of General Turkish History at the Faculty of Language, History, and Geography. Rising swiftly, he earned his doctorate in 1985, became an assistant professor in 1987, an associate professor in 1988, and a full professor in 1996. His academic development was deeply influenced by his master’s and doctoral advisor, Prof. Dr. Bahaeddin Ögel. Following in Prof. Ögel’s footsteps, Buharalı built his scholarly pursuits and teaching philosophy on discipline and loyalty. His meticulous work on Arabic sources and groundbreaking approaches in this field stand as remarkable examples of his contributions to Turkish history. His articles and translations illuminated not only the academic world but also wider audiences. His academic rigor and dedication to Turkishness shone brightly in the master’s and doctoral students he mentored, who continue to carry his legacy across various universities in Turkey.

    Beyond his academic achievements, Prof. Dr. Buharalı’s humanity held its own unique value. His elegance, refined spirit, and consistently constructive demeanor inspired deep love and respect among those around him. The bond he shared with his students went beyond the conventional teacher-student relationship, embodying the care and affection of a guide, a friend, and an elder brother. The precision and dedication he demonstrated in his work were admired by students and colleagues alike. Known as "the father of scholarship" by his students, this title reflects the profound mentorship he provided throughout his academic career.

    Prof. Dr. Eşref Buharalı made unparalleled contributions to Turkish historiography, bringing to light obscure historical topics and leaving behind an academic legacy steeped in the consciousness of Turkishness. His meticulous analyses of Arabic sources provided significant insights into Turkish history, while his productive scholarship and disciplined approach continue to inspire future generations.

    With his passing, we have lost not only an academic but also a friend, a guide, and a mentor. For his students and colleagues, he remains an eternal source of inspiration. Preserving the values he instilled and carrying his work forward is the greatest responsibility we now shoulder.

    As we pen these lines, we cannot help but imagine the balcony of the Faculty of Language, History, and Geography, where we will forever seek his presence. As we bid him farewell, we will keep his memory alive in our hearts. Prof. Dr. Eşref Buharalı was not just a teacher but a treasure. His name and works will live on in the pages of Turkish historiography and in the hearts of his students. Rest in peace, dear professor. Your values and contributions will never be forgotten.

On this occasion, while commemorating the memory of Prof. Dr. Eşref Buharalı and his dedication to education and science, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to all teachers and academic staff on this Teacher’s Day.

EDITORS
Prof. Dr. Mustafa GÖKÇE
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tülay YÜREKLİ
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tuba TOMBULOĞLU
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Eralp ERDOĞAN
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Özgür TÜRKER