Evaluation of the Turkish and Chinese Sections in the Bilge Khagan and Kül Tigin Inscriptions in Terms of Content and Style

Abstract

The Göktürk Inscriptions are regarded as the milestone of Turkish writing history, illuminating the period from the 8th century to the present. They are not only the earliest evidence of Turkish literacy but also provide rich information on the state structure, administration, culture, relations with other societies, and history of the Turks. Although some earlier inscriptions exist, none match the Göktürk Inscriptions in scope and narrative style. Since their discovery, numerous studies have been conducted from various perspectives.

This study focuses on a less examined question: “Why was Chinese used alongside Turkish in the inscriptions?” To answer this, Turkish-Chinese relations of the era, the use of both languages before and after the period, the origins of stele-erecting traditions, and a content analysis of the Turkish and Chinese texts were examined.

A striking contrast motivated this research: while the Turkish texts advise future generations not to trust the Chinese, the Chinese section includes statements by the Chinese Emperor highlighting close ties with the Turks. Despite their distrust, the Turks allowed Chinese to be inscribed on their monuments. When the sociopolitical and military context of the time is considered, these contradictions become more understandable. The study concludes by evaluating this issue in its historical context.