The Myth and Reality of Skanderbeg: Why Muslim Albanians Should Not Dislike Him

Explore the historical truth of Gjergj Kastrioti-Skanderbeg and the misunderstandings surrounding his relationship with religion. Discover why Muslim Albanians should not dislike him and what his legacy truly means.

Introduction

The concept of speculatively vandalizing the figure of Gjergj Kastrioti-Skanderbeg by questioning his relations with religion is nothing more than a nonsensical exercise. Skanderbeg lived during a tumultuous period when Christianity was the majority religion among Albanians, even among the nobility. Arguing that his actions represent a revolt against Muslim Albanian civilians is a misinterpretation of history. As he was one of the highest-ranking military commanders of the Ottoman Empire, his loyalty to the Ottomans until he chose to desert is a testament to his complex ambitions and political acumen.

Skanderbeg's Conversion and Battles

Skanderbeg was a multi-confessional leader who fought multiple religions and killed both Muslims and Christians. He converted to Christianity, but not necessarily as a religious act, but rather as a sign of revolt against the Ottoman Empire. Had he been a ferocious religious killer during his rebellion, he would have been at odds with the Quran's teaching on unity and morality. According to verse 2:251 of Chapter Maidah, Islam teaches that all humanity is one family. Hence, loving those who kill a brother or sister in the name of your faith is not acceptable.

Legal and Theological Context

The Quran clearly states, 'That is why We ordained for the Children of Israel that whoever takes a life—unless as a punishment for murder or mischief in the land—it will be as if they killed all of humanity and whoever saves a life it will be as if they saved all of humanity.1 Although Our messengers already came to them with clear proofs many of them still transgressed afterwards through the land.' This verse applies to all human beings, not just Muslims. Whether Skanderbeg killed innocent Muslims is a debatable point, as is the status of Ottoman soldiers.

The 'Athlethe of Christ' Title

The title 'Athlethe of Christ' given to Skanderbeg by Pope Leo was a motivational tool for Christian leaders fighting non-Christians. However, this title was more political than religious. His helmet with the goat symbol remains contested, as the goat is not a Christian symbol. Some theories suggest he adopted the symbol to align with the legend of Alexander the Great, who was thought to be Dhu al-Qarnayn in some interpretations. Another theory proposes influence from the Knights Templar, who used a similar symbol to worship. This title was also given to other medieval figures like Janos Hunyadi, Stephen the Great, and Louis I of Hungary.

Conclusion and Historical Context

There is no reason for Muslim Albanians to dislike Skanderbeg based on his life as a part-Muslim and part-Christian. His loyalty to the Ottoman Empire and subsequent rebellion against them are more political than religious. His legacy is not grounded in strict religious interpretation but in his role as a historical figure representing Albanian nationality and its indifference to religious identity during the medieval era. The Albanian nation-building process has chosen Skanderbeg as a figure that unites the religiously divided Albanian people.

Stay Neutral and Respectful

Intentional attempts to stir conflict among Muslim Albanians regarding allegiance to Islam or Skanderbeg are malicious. Skanderbeg is a national hero, not a religious one. Any interpretation of his actions should be based on historical facts rather than doctrinal beliefs. While some Imams may deny him as a hero due to religious reasons, the Albanian Islamic community affirms his national hero status.