On the blessed Friday of 21 July 2017, Sheikh Mehmed Efendi reminded our community that every trial we encounter is not merely a test of endurance but an invitation to divine mercy. He began with praise for Allah (Celle Celaluhu) and blessings upon His Messenger and the saints, and then turned to the deeper purpose of humanity’s life on this earth.
The Real Purpose of Our Arrival
We were not sent into this world to chase fame, power or fleeting pleasures. The Qur’an tells us clearly that Allah created mankind “to be tested.” These tests come through hunger, fear, loss of wealth, illness and even death. Yet the hardship is paired with a promise: for those who remain patient and steadfast and turn to Allah, mercy and triumph await.
Seeing Trials as Mercy
A central image of the sermon was trial as “the gate of mercy.” Seen this way, our response to difficulty shifts from rebellion to gratitude. Whether we miss the first chance, the ninety‑ninth or even the five hundredth, Allah does not close the book on us. He offers another opportunity, and we are urged to lower our foreheads in prostration and thank Him for the hope He never withdraws.
Sheikh Mehmed warned against the modern tendency to cling to worldly security and to seek permanence through wealth or status. Such pursuits blind us to the blessings already present and make every hardship feel like a personal curse. When we recognize trials as doors opened by divine compassion, sorrow can become spiritual ascent.
Responding with Patience and Action
His practical counsel: in adversity, do not fall into despair or blame (“Why always me?”). Renew your intention to strive and persevere, and seek the company of the righteous. True justice belongs to Allah alone; human oppression comes from those who ignore His signs.
He called on us to remain humble, to keep our hearts attuned to the Qur’an’s verses on trial, and to respond with sincere duʿa, gratitude and renewed dedication to the path of servitude. In this way we align ourselves with the promise that Allah’s mercy will crown our perseverance.
May this reminder help each of us to see every challenge as a step toward closeness to the Divine. If you wish to deepen your practice or reflect together with fellow seekers, join our Live meetings, where we gather for Bayʿah and collective remembrance.
For ongoing support, community and news of future teachings, visit our Community page. May Allah grant us patience, gratitude and the ability to recognize His mercy in every trial.
