At a warm gathering at the Sufi Center in Braunschweig, Sheikh Mehmed Efendi gave a heartfelt sohbet on zikr, the everyday challenges of modern life and the joy that arises when sincerity lights up our hearts. Remembering Allah, he reminded us, can turn ordinary minutes into something that feels as vast as hours, and genuine joy is a sign of divine generosity.
The Power of Zikr in Daily Life
Sheikh Mehmed spoke about the profound effect of sincere zikr (remembrance of God). Even a twenty-minute session, he said, can feel like twenty hours of spiritual nourishment. Unlike endless scrolling through digital media, which often leaves us empty, true zikr charges the soul with an “electric current” that revives the inner self – not a routine duty but a source of deep and lasting energy.
Modern Analogies: Electric Cars and Spiritual Recharge
He compared spiritual practice to electric cars. A petrol car is refuelled in minutes, while an electric car needs hours of charging – yet once charged, it runs quietly and efficiently. In the same way, when we “plug into” Allah through zikr, there may be a time of waiting, but the inner peace that follows sustains us far longer than passing worldly comforts. He also noted that relying on any external system without divine grounding can leave us stranded.
Joyful Moments on Hajj
Recalling his recent pilgrimage, Sheikh Mehmed described an “electric-fast” Hajj. In the midst of the crowds there were moments of pure laughter and tears – people laughing until their shirts were wet – showing that sincere joy is a manifestation of the generosity and hospitality of the Prophet (peace be upon him). These shared smiles were a living example of sincerity (ikhlas): when our hearts are aligned with divine love, even solemn gatherings overflow with happiness.
Living Sincerity in Everyday Life
The sohbet closed with practical guidance: cherish moments of genuine happiness rather than chasing endless drama. Allah readily grants sincere joy to those who seek it, while the pursuit of drama brings only fleeting satisfaction. Sheikh Mehmed praised the community’s dedication to preserving the legacy of Mawlana Sheikh Nazim and noted that sincerity cannot be measured, but is felt in every act of service and gratitude.
Sincerity is more than a word: it is a living presence in the heart, expressed through zikr, compassionate action and the simple delight of laughing together with fellow seekers. May we continue to nurture this spirit in ourselves and in our community.
For daily remembrance practices, Qur’anic verses and prayers that support a sincere path, explore our Library.
