Ayberk Efendi opens this address with the traditional greeting “Selamun Aleyküm” and places the ancient symbol of the Kızıl Elma (the Red or Golden Apple) at the centre of our shared purpose. For centuries, he reminds us, the striving toward this luminous fruit has guided Turkish, Ottoman and Islamic endeavours – in courts, schools and tribal gatherings alike. Today many organisations that once championed this ideal have drifted into party politics and idle talk. The Royal Ottoman Society chooses a different path: 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 stands for the unity of faith and 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 in the era of Sultan Mehmed II, the Conqueror, the conquest of “Şarki Roma” (Eastern Rome, Istanbul) was celebrated as the fulfilment of a prophetic tradition. The same prophecy speaks of a future conquest of “Garbi Roma” (Western Rome) – not with swords, but through takbîr, zikr and ilâhis. This vision continues to inspire us.
Our Present Mission
The Society’s work is grounded in concrete action rather than empty rhetoric. Ayberk Efendi points to the gathering on 2 November 2019 near the Vatican, where members stood together with Şeyh Bahauddin Adil Efendi and performed collective takbîr, zikr and ilâhis. The event aimed to awaken the spiritual consciousness of those present, and several participants publicly proclaimed their faith. Such moments show how we turn the promise of the Red Apple into lived experience: through prayerful gatherings, sincere service and the spreading of authentic knowledge.
Walking the Path Together
Our community invites all sincere seekers to join this journey. Whether you are new to Sufi practice or a long-standing disciple, you are welcome to sit with us – perhaps over a cup of tea – and share in the striving toward that radiant goal.
If this vision resonates with you, consider becoming a member of the Royal Ottoman Society (Membership) and explore our daily spiritual resources in the Library. Together we can keep the light of the Red Apple shining for generations to come.
