At a warm gathering of Ottoman-heritage communities from across Europe, we were reminded of the blessed greeting “As-salamu ʿalaykum wa raḥmatullahi wa barakatuh” and the invocation Bismillahir-Rahmanir-Rahim. Sheikh Mehmed Efendi opened by declaring that “the hand of God is with those who gather,” assuring us that divine support accompanies sincere brotherhood. Yet even the most harmonious gatherings, he cautioned, are watched by Satan, who looks for any sign of ikhtilaf – division that could break our unity. Rather than erasing all differences, he urged us to cultivate a spirit that turns disagreement into constructive dialogue, so that love and humility keep the community whole.
A central thread of his address was personal responsibility in remembrance (dhikr). Each heart must do its own dhikr; no one can carry this inner work for us, and no city or Western environment can replace the inner connection with the Divine. Whether we live in Istanbul, Berlin, Paris or elsewhere, the call is the same: a private, sincere turning toward Allah that sustains us amid worldly distractions.
Sheikh Mehmed Efendi also warned against seeking outside approval – the modern temptation of “likes.” True devotion is hidden from the world and directed to Allah alone; chasing admiration invites vanity, which can sow discord in the brotherhood. He closed with a warning about false statements, referring to rumours about a figure named “Abu Bakra.” The lesson was clear: verify information, avoid gossip and protect the trust on which our community rests.
We invite you to continue exploring these teachings together. Join our fellowship on the Community page and deepen your study with the resources in our Library. May the hand of God remain with us.
