Balak Gazi, whose full name is Nûrü’d-Devle Belek bin Behram bin Artuk, was a Turkish commander who lived during the first quarter of the 12th century. He belonged to the Artuklu Dynasty, which traced its lineage to the Kayı tribe of the Bozok branch of the Oghuz Turks. The Artuklu Beylik was a semi-independent Turkmen principality that played an active role in the eastern regions of Anatolia during the foundation of the Seljuk State of Anatolia. Belek Gazi was the grandson of Artuk Bey, the founder of the dynasty and a participant in the Battle of Manzikert. His exact date of birth is unknown.

In 1112, he assumed control over the region of Harput (modern-day Elazığ) and became its ruler. In 1115, he seized Harput from the Çubukoğulları Beylik, which had previously governed the area, and established a administration loyal to the Artuklu Dynasty. This development led to the emergence of a new branch of the Artuklu Dynasty centered in Harput. The capture of Harput strengthened the Artuklids’ political presence in eastern Anatolia.

^{Monument of Belek Gazi (}Culture Portal)

Belek Gazi is known for his military campaigns during the Crusades. In 1122, he captured Count Joscelin II of Edessa. The following year, he took prisoner King Baldwin II of Jerusalem and several other Crusader commanders during a campaign launched to rescue Joscelin. The captured individuals were held in Harput Castle. These events significantly influenced the political balance of the period.

Following these military successes, he was granted the title Nûrü’d-Devle, meaning “Light of the State.” He was also appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Muslim Armies by the Great Seljuk Sultan. This appointment reflects the political relationship between the Seljuk administration and the Artuklids.

Belek Gazi died in 1124 during a campaign in the Membij region of northern Syria. He was killed by an arrow that struck him during the siege of the fortress. His body was taken to Aleppo and buried at a site known as the Mausoleum of Prophet Ibrahim.

The name of Belek Gazi is still remembered today in the Elazığ-Harput region. In 1965, a monument statue in his honor was erected at the entrance to Harput. The statue was crafted by the sculptor Nurettin Orhan.