شيخ الإسلام
The ulama in the Ottoman Empire had a significant influence over politics because due to the belief that secular institutions were all subordinate to Islamic law, the Sharia "()". The ulama were responsible for interpreting the religious law, therefore they claimed that their power superseded that of the government. Within the Ottoman hierarchy of ulama, the Shaykh al-Islām held the highest rank. He exerted his influence by issuing fatwas, his written interpretations of the sharia had authority over the entire Ottoman population. In the 16th century, as the support by the ulama of the sultan and the central government was essential for shaping the still-growing empire, the importance of the office rose, and its power increased. As members of the "Ilmiye", the imperial scholars were part of the Ottoman elite class of the Askeri, and were exempt from any taxes.