On the evening of 19 December 2017 our community gathered for a heartfelt sohbet with Sheikh Bahauddin Efendi. He opened with gratitude—“Selamun Aleyküm, thank you all for being here”—and the circle soon moved into the traditional Nakşibendî zikr that we perform every Thursday under Ayberk Efendi’s guidance. This Saturday’s session felt even deeper; participants described it as an inner illumination that seemed to “reach down to our very bones.”
The Blessing of Zikr and the Presence of the Saints
Sheikh Bahauddin reminded us that in these moments we are under the watchful eyes of the great Meşâyıh‑ı Nizam, whose gaze, he explained, protects us even on the Day of Judgment. He invited us to seek forgiveness for past shortcomings and to cherish the simple greeting “Selamun Aleyküm” as a bridge between souls—whether exchanged on the streets of Meinhayn or later in Berlin over coffee.
Prayer as the Nearest Point to Allah
A central theme was the indispensable role of namaz. Sheikh Bahauddin likened each prayer to charging the soul, like plugging an electric car into a socket: even two rakʿahs before leaving home can restore one’s spiritual battery. He warned against neglecting this direct connection with the Divine, noting that in the darkness of the Hereafter those who have not prayed will remain blind.
Trust (Tevekkül) and the Ship Metaphor
The Sheikh described modern life as a ship laden with comforts—pools, cinemas, endless advertisements—yet still bound to a single course set by Allah. “We may try to steer,” he said, “but ultimately the Captain decides our direction.” Accepting this, he encouraged us to practise sincere trust (tevekkül), leaving control in the hands of the Almighty and focusing on good deeds, service and love for our fellow human beings.
Community, Service and Ottoman Heritage
Interwoven with the spiritual guidance were reflections on our Ottoman legacy. Sheikh Bahauddin praised the inclusive spirit of Ottoman identity: a heritage that welcomes every nation while preserving a shared moral compass. He urged members to embody this in daily life—by sharing a humble meal, offering kind words, or simply ensuring that women’s presence adds colour to the world.
A Closing Blessing
The sohbet concluded with prayers for health, financial relief and protection from depression—a reminder that regular zikr and prayer are remedies for both spiritual and worldly ailments. “May Allah forgive us, lift our burdens, and grant us a blessed new year,” Sheikh Bahauddin said, and the gathering gave thanks for the hospitality received.
We invite you to continue this journey of remembrance, trust and service with the Royal Ottoman Society. Join our live meetings to deepen your practice and connect with fellow seekers: Live Meetings.
May the light of the saints guide us all, and may we remain steadfast in prayer and gratitude. Selamun Aleyküm.
