What was required of Non-Muslims in the Ottoman Empire?

In the early centuries of the Ottoman Empire, non-Muslims were considered second-class citizens and subjected to various discriminatory laws and regulations known as the millet system. The millets were religious communities, and each millet was governed by its own religious leaders.

Here are some of the restrictions and obligations imposed on non-Muslims in the Ottoman Empire:

1. Jizya Tax: Non-Muslim males over a certain age were required to pay a special tax called jizya. This tax was seen as a sign of submission and distinction from Muslims.

2. Restrictions on Public Office: Non-Muslims were largely excluded from holding high-ranking positions in the government and military.

3. Limited Legal Rights: Non-Muslims had fewer legal rights compared to Muslims. Their testimony was not considered equal in court, and they faced certain limitations in owning property and engaging in certain professions.

4. Dress Code: Non-Muslims were required to dress in a way that distinguished them from Muslims. For example, they might be required to wear a different color of clothing or a distinctive head covering.

5. Prohibition on Proselytizing: Non-Muslims were not allowed to convert Muslims to their faith.

6. Restrictions on Building Places of Worship: Non-Muslims were limited in their ability to build new places of worship or repair existing ones.

7. Segregation in Public Spaces: Non-Muslims were often required to use separate public facilities, such as baths and cemeteries.

8. Educational Restrictions: Non-Muslims had limited access to education compared to Muslims. They were not allowed to attend certain schools or study certain subjects.

These restrictions and obligations were gradually relaxed or abolished during the later periods of the Ottoman Empire, particularly in the 19th century, as the empire underwent a series of reforms and modernization efforts.