Were Jews in the Ottoman Empire treated as first class or 2nd class citizens?

 The treatment of Jews in the Ottoman Empire varied over time and was influenced by a range of factors, including the policies of individual rulers, economic conditions, and the prevailing social and political climate. It's important to note that the Ottoman Empire spanned several centuries, and conditions for different communities could change across different periods.

Generally, the Ottoman Empire was known for a more inclusive and tolerant approach to religious diversity compared to some other contemporaneous empires. The Ottomans implemented a system known as the "millet" system, which recognized various religious and ethnic communities as separate legal entities with a degree of autonomy in managing their internal affairs.

Under the millet system, Jews, along with Christians and other religious groups, were allowed to practice their faith and manage their own communal affairs. The Ottomans did not impose a strict hierarchy based solely on religious identity; instead, they granted certain privileges and responsibilities to different millets based on their own internal structures.

While Jews in the Ottoman Empire were generally allowed to engage in commerce, trade, and various professions, their status could still vary depending on local conditions and specific rulers. At times, Jews, like other non-Muslim communities, were subjected to special taxes, and there were instances of discriminatory policies. However, there were also periods of relative stability and prosperity for Jewish communities within the empire.

It's important to recognize the diversity of experiences within the Ottoman Empire and avoid oversimplifications. Conditions for Jews and other non-Muslim communities could differ significantly across regions and historical periods within the vast and complex history of the Ottoman Empire.