In this heartfelt address, Ayberk Efendi welcomes seekers with the traditional greeting “Selamun Aleyküm” and immediately places the ancient symbol of the Kızıl Elma (the Red/Golden Apple) at the centre of our collective purpose. He reminds us that throughout centuries the aspiration toward this luminous fruit has guided Turkish, Ottoman, and Islamic endeavours—whether in courts, schools, or tribal gatherings. Yet today, many organisations that once championed this ideal have drifted into partisan politics and idle chatter. The Royal Ottoman Society chooses a different path: steadfastly following the guidance of Şeyh Nazım Kıbrısî Hazretleri and Şeyh Muhammed Adil Hazretleri, we move forward on the “Grota” (the true route) toward the Red Apple without distraction.
Historical Roots of the Red Apple
The Red Apple has long been more than a poetic metaphor; it represents the unity of faith, culture, and the drive to uplift humanity. Ottoman viziers would meet under its banner, pledging loyalty not only to the state but to a higher spiritual mission. Ayberk Efendi recalls that even in the era of Sultan Mehmed II—“the Conqueror”—the conquest of “Şarki Roma” (Istanbul) was celebrated as a fulfillment of prophetic tradition. The same prophecy speaks of the future conquest of “Garbi Roma,” not with swords but through takbîr, zikr, and ilâhiler (chants). This vision continues to inspire us today.
Our Present Mission
The Society’s activities are deliberately grounded in concrete action rather than empty rhetoric. Ayberk Efendi cites a landmark gathering on 2 November 2019 near the Vatican, where members stood together with Şeyh Bahauddin Adil Efendi and performed collective takbîr, zikr, and ilâhiler. The event aimed to awaken the spiritual consciousness of those present, leading several participants to publicly proclaim their faith. Such moments exemplify how we translate the Red Apple’s promise into lived experience: through prayerful gatherings, sincere service, and the propagation of authentic knowledge.
Walking the Path Together
Our community invites all sincere seekers to join this journey. The Royal Ottoman Society serves as an open door for believers worldwide who wish to align their hearts with the timeless aim of the Kızıl Elma. Whether you are new to Sufi practice or a seasoned disciple, we encourage you to sit with us—perhaps over a cup of tea—and share in the collective striving toward that radiant goal.
If this vision resonates, consider deepening your involvement by becoming a member of the Royal Ottoman Society Membership and explore our daily spiritual resources at the Library. Together we can keep the light of the Red Apple shining for generations to come.
