In this Friday sermon, Ayberk Efendi reminded us that every human being carries a divine trust – not a burden but an active duty given by Allah Himself. We are not merely passengers in this world; we are caretakers of many obligations, seen and unseen.
Divine Trust Over Negligence
“Allah does not give anyone a lack of responsibility; He gives everyone a charge,” Ayberk Efendi began. This charge is universal: each of us is responsible for ourselves, our families, our community and the environment, and ultimately for returning to the heavenly home from which we came. Neglecting one’s duties, he said, turns a person into “a mere letter” that can change the course of an entire life – an image of how small omissions ripple outward.
The Map and the Guides
The Qur’an, the four sacred books, is our map; the prophets and saints are the guides who have placed signposts along the path to Paradise. Ayberk Efendi called them “living navigation” and urged us to follow their example faithfully. Our responsibility does not end with personal piety; it extends to listening to scholars and imams, and to hearing the voice of Allah in our own hearts.
A Call to Continuous Self-Examination
Young or old, each of us is called to ask: “Do you fulfil your responsibilities?” The answer should move us to align our daily actions with what the Qur’an teaches and the saints have lived: caring for our children, supporting one another, preserving nature and keeping a sincere relationship with Allah.
Balancing Worldly Effort and Spiritual Aim
Ayberk Efendi also spoke of the modern tendency to work tirelessly for temporary pleasures – holidays and material comforts – while forgetting that this world is a preparation for the eternal. We should see our work as service toward the hereafter: “If you enjoy this life, you will not be able to enjoy the next.” The choice rests with each of us: to pursue worldly success in harmony with spiritual responsibility, or to let fleeting pleasures take over.
Living the Responsibility Today
The sermon closed with a clear reminder: “From the moment your mind awakens, you are responsible; from the moment it ceases, the accountability lifts.” It invites us to act now and to embrace every duty as a chance to draw nearer to Allah and honour the trust placed in us.
If this reflection resonates with you, deepen your practice in our gatherings, where seekers can take Bayʿah (spiritual allegiance) and explore these teachings together: Live meetings.
May we all walk the path of responsibility with humility and steadfastness.
