August 16

Matthew Tindal (1657–1733) was an influential English deist philosopher and author whose seminal work Christianity Not Mysterious argued for a rational approach to religious belief. He served as secretary to the Earl of Shaftesbury and engaged in correspondence with other leading thinkers of the Enlightenment. Tindal's writings challenged orthodox Christianity and promoted the idea that religious truths should be accessible through reason. His clear prose and bold arguments earned him both acclaim and controversy in 18th-century intellectual circles. The legacy of his work contributed to debates on religious tolerance and the role of reason in faith.

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa (1836–1886) was an Indian mystic and spiritual luminary whose profound experiences of divine ecstasy inspired a revival of Hindu devotional practice. Born in Bengal, he practiced various religious paths, demonstrating the unity of all faiths. His teachings emphasized personal devotion, selfless love, and direct experience of the divine. Ramakrishna attracted a circle of disciples, including Swami Vivekananda, who later spread his master’s message worldwide. His life and teachings became foundational to the modern Hindu renaissance and the global Vedanta movement.

Mihri Belli (1916–2011) was one of Turkey's foremost Marxist thinkers and revolutionaries, dedicating his life to socialist activism. He studied law and economy, later joining underground communist organizations and advocating for workers' rights. Belli spent years in exile and prison due to his political beliefs, writing extensively on revolutionary theory and strategy. His ideas influenced student movements and left-wing parties during the 1960s and 1970s. He also served as an advisor to political leaders and continued teaching even in his later years. Belli's persistent commitment to social justice left a lasting impact on Turkey's political landscape.