At a gathering in our Ludwigshafen centre, Ayberk Efendi opened the evening by thanking those whose dedication made it possible – Bayram Türkoğlu, Şevki Bilgin and Mehmet Hoca – for their inspiring words. He then shared the vision that has guided our community for more than a decade.
A Dergah Shaped for Europe
Ayberk Efendi recalled the moment in 2006 when Sheikh Efendi sent him a manayma: “My son, you will go to Ludwigshafen, the heart of Europe. There you will open a dergah – not a traditional one, but a place that feels like a wedding hall or a palace.” He described the centre as a living space where a Mehter band, a Sufi music ensemble and many activities give young people halal alternatives to the harmful temptations of the street.
The central message was clear: young hearts need open doors, not just walls. Above the entrance hangs a sign reading “Ne olursan ol, gel” (“Come, whoever you are”). It does not promise an easy way out; rather, it asks each visitor how they will leave the place transformed.
Tolerance with Boundaries
The evening then turned to hoşgörü – tolerance – as the true foundation of Islam. Ayberk Efendi stressed that tolerance is a divine quality, yet it has limits: when someone crosses them, the community must set firm points and guide that person back onto the path of love and unity.
He warned against teachers who frighten rather than enlighten, which can drive young people to cafés, discos or idle gossip once they leave the mosque. By offering purposeful activities in the centre, the Society seeks to keep them engaged in the love of Allah and in human compassion.
Addressing Gossip and Slander
A recurring question from the audience was whether süzan, dedikodu (idle talk) and iftira (slander) are forbidden. Ayberk Efendi confirmed that all scholars classify them as haram, but observed that many people do not practise what they preach. He praised the contribution of the theologian and psychologist Mehmet Küçük, who has been with the community for two years and helps members face such challenges with wisdom and empathy.
A Growing Community
Over ten years, more than seventy non-Muslim friends have embraced Islam through our inclusive approach. Their journeys show how a centre built on unity, respect and creative expression can become a bridge between cultures, carrying the Ottoman tradition of hospitality into today’s Europe.
If you would like to join this community, where strength truly grows together, consider becoming a member of the Royal Ottoman Society. Your participation helps us keep offering safe spaces for young people, meaningful activities and spiritual guidance.
We look forward to welcoming you through our open door – Ne olursan ol, gel.
