This article delves into the examination of the transfer of rationalist foundations, which form the basis of Turkish moral understanding, across generations in Karakhanid Turkish written products, commonly referred to as the transitional period. In order to fulfil the designated objective, the chosen corpus of study comprises Kutadgu Bilig and Atabetü'l-Hakayık, two seminal works that epitomize the essence of moral comprehension during a transitional period. Within the introductory section of the article, comprising an initial segment and two principal headings, the elucidation of the concept of morality is proffered, followed by an explication of the subjects that fall under the purview of moral philosophy. Furthermore, the rationalist standpoint is expounded upon, particularly with regard to the fundamental underpinnings of moral comprehension. The discourse commenced by providing a concise allusion to the moral comprehension of the ancient Turks, thereby facilitating a seamless segue into the vestiges of the erudite and knowledge-centric antiquated moral understanding discernible within the written artefacts of Karakhanid Turkish. The initial segment of the article delves into the elucidation of the counsel proffered in Kutadgu Bilig, which serves as a conduit for attaining the pinnacle of worthiness and moral excellence via sagacity and erudition. In the subsequent section, an analysis is conducted on the counsel provided within the aforementioned framework, specifically in relation to Atabetü'l-Hakayık. This literary work bears resemblance to Kutadgu Bilig in numerous aspects and serves as a continuation of the same normative tradition. Consequently, the disparities in the ethical comprehension of the two aforementioned works, despite their shared foundations, were ascertained.

Morality, Reason, Knowledge, Kutadgu Bilig, Atabetü'l-Hakayık.