The adoption of Islam by Turks has had an extremely important place in the fate of this nation. The adoption of a new religion or civilisation always preserves its quality of being the most significant incident in the history of a nation in respect of the changes and developments that it creates in the beliefs, understanding and lifestyles of the community. There are frequent examples in the history that show that some nations maintained their existence due to such changes and developed with a new faith and a rapid speed. And on the contrary, the national identities of some nations were undermined through such changes and they even lost their national identities. In the history of Turks, we can clearly observe the effects of the adoption of a new religion in the lifestyle of a nation. Before the adoption of Islam, Turks had adopted the religions of Buddhism, Manichaeism, Judaism and Christianity, etc. in both Turkestan and in the other countries that they conquered. However, the partially adopted these religions and the great Turkish groups were the believers of their religion of Gok-Tanri (Sky-God). Since the order arranged by these religions that were partially adopted by Turks was not suitable for their traditions and lifestyles, these religions caused them to lose their national identities in a short period. Gok Turk Emperor, Bilge Khan had wanted from his vizier, Tonyukuk the construction of a Buddhist temple. This wise vizier had answered his demand through stating that "The adoption of this religion that prohibits fighting in the wars and eating the animal meat will be a catastrophe for Turks". This answer obviously indicates his prediction and anxiety about this issue.
The adoption of Islam has provided a new spirit and power for Turks and it was the principal factor in the foundation of great and long lasting states in the regions that range from the Asian steppes towards the central districts of Europe. The more important characteristics is that the Turks have survived with their national identity since the order arranged by the religion of Islam and the Turkish traditions and customs were in compliance with each other and they were supplementary parts. Any of the Turkish tribes that adopted the religion of Islam did not lose their national identities like Hungarians, Bulgarians, Khazar and Pecenek people, etc. that had converted to other religions. In other words, Turkish Nation that is widespread in various countries all over the world could preserve its identity and existence due to the religion of Islam. This positive effect of the religion of Islam has been reflected in every field of the social life ranging from the state administration to the art. It has been a source of inspiration and it provided great help in the creation of immortal works.