Introduction

The linguistic and cultural ties between Iranian Turks and Turkish Turks, also known as Turkish Azeris or Anatolian Turks, are profound and complex. Drawing from a shared heritage, these communities are intricately connected by centuries of interaction, yet also exhibit distinct regional differences influenced by historical and political factors.

The Shared Heritage

Considered as Iranian Azeris, we within the Azeri community in Iran have a deep-seated sense of connection to our Turkish counterparts. This bond transcends geographical boundaries, as we find a shared familiarity and warmth in our interactions. The conversations flow effortlessly, and our traditions and values resonate deeply. Our laughter echoes with a shared understanding, even as we are separated by borders.

Linguistic Influences

Our languages, both modern and historical, have been shaped by a complex weave of influences. While our daily vernacular is increasingly influenced by regional dialects, our sense of shared cultural heritage remains unbreakable. The evolution of the Turkish language from its roots as Ottoman Turkish to the more modern forms like modern Turkish, Anatolian Turkish, Azerbaijan Turkish, and Iranian Turkish, showcases the diverse influences that have shaped and continue to shape our languages.

Language Diversity

Ottoman Turkish was primarily used by a limited group of court members, bureaucrats, and artists, and had a diminished usage outside these circles. In contrast, modern Turkish has a broader and more inclusive usage. The languages of Anatolia, Azerbaijan, and Iran trace their roots to Western Oghuz Turkic, further emphasizing the shared linguistic roots.

Historical and Cultural Divide

One of the key distinctions between Turkish Turks and Iranian Turks lies in their historical interactions with the Ottoman Empire, which had a profound impact on the cultural and religious dynamics of these regions. Modern Turkish and Iranian Turkish dialects differ in several ways, but fundamentally, they share a common origin.

Religious and Secular Divergences

A significant difference between Turkish and Iranian peoples can be attributed to historical religious and secular movements. In Anatolia, the rise of the Ottoman Empire was marked by a conflict with Sufi Iranian religion, leading to the migration of Sufi people to Iran and the formation of the Safavid kingdom. This event had a lasting impact on the religious landscape of both regions.

Secularism and Social Changes

The secularization of Turkey, initiated by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, marks another crucial divide. The adoption of a new language, modern script, and a more secular society has led to significant cultural shifts in Turkey that are distinctive from those in Iran.

While these divergences exist, they do not diminish the shared cultural and linguistic heritage. Merely paying tax to different states and adopting different dialects does not alter the deep-rooted bonds shaped over centuries. The historical ties and shared cultural experiences continue to bind the Turkish-speaking people of Iran and Turkey.

Conclusion

I am indeed grateful for the kinship that binds Iranian Azeris and Turkish Turks. Despite our differences, the ties that connect us are the threads of shared history, language, and values. These bonds transcend borders and highlight the rich multicultural landscape of our regions. As the world becomes more interconnected, it is crucial to appreciate and celebrate these connections rather than focus on divisions.