Meaning: This quote by Orhan Pamuk, a renowned Turkish novelist, offers insight into the complex relationship between secularism and religion in Turkey. It suggests that the secularists in Turkey did not underestimate the influence of religion, but rather erred in their belief that they could control it solely through the power of the military. To fully understand the significance of this quote, it is essential to explore the historical and political context of Turkey, as well as Orhan Pamuk's own experiences and perspectives.

Turkey has a unique political landscape characterized by a delicate balance between secularism and Islam. The country's founder, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, implemented a series of radical secularizing reforms in the early 20th century, aiming to modernize and westernize Turkey by significantly limiting the influence of religion in public life. These reforms included the abolition of the Caliphate, the introduction of secular legal codes, and the restriction of religious attire in public institutions. As a result, Turkey became a secular state with a predominantly Muslim population.

However, despite the official secularism, religion has remained a potent force in Turkish society. The Justice and Development Party (AKP), a conservative political party with Islamist roots, has gained significant support and influence in recent decades. Under the leadership of Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the AKP has implemented policies that have been perceived as challenging the secularist principles established by Atatürk. This has led to tensions between secularists and religious conservatives, as well as debates about the role of religion in public life.

Orhan Pamuk's quote can be seen as a commentary on the failure of secularists to effectively manage the role of religion in Turkish society. The reference to "the mistake of believing they could control it with the power of the army alone" alludes to the historical reliance on the military as a guardian of secularism. Throughout Turkey's modern history, the military has intervened in politics multiple times to uphold the secularist principles established by Atatürk. However, as Pamuk suggests, the attempt to control religion through military power alone was flawed and ultimately ineffective.

Pamuk's perspective is informed by his experiences as a prominent public intellectual in Turkey. He has been an outspoken advocate for freedom of expression and has faced legal challenges and backlash for his provocative statements on controversial issues, including the Armenian Genocide and Kurdish rights. His views on the relationship between secularism and religion are shaped by his engagement with the complexities of Turkish society and politics.

The quote also underscores the complexity of managing religious diversity within a secular framework. It highlights the limitations of attempting to suppress or control religious expression through coercive means, such as military intervention. Instead, it suggests the need for a more nuanced and inclusive approach that respects the rights and beliefs of all citizens, regardless of their religious affiliations.

In conclusion, Orhan Pamuk's quote offers a thought-provoking perspective on the challenges of managing religion within a secular framework in Turkey. It reflects the ongoing debates and tensions surrounding the role of religion in Turkish society, as well as the limitations of relying solely on coercive measures to control religious expression. Understanding the historical and political context of Turkey is crucial for appreciating the significance of Pamuk's insights and the broader implications for the relationship between secularism and religion in diverse societies.