On the evening of 23 February 2013 the Royal Ottoman Society gathered in Ludwigshafen for a heartfelt dhikr session led by Sultan Sheikh Mehmed Efendi together with Ayberk Efendi. The small circle of seekers settled on cushions, eyes gently closed, as the two sheikhs began to chant the sacred names of God. Their voices rose in a steady rhythm of “Astaghfirullah”, “La ilaha illa Allah”, and other invocations that have been handed down through generations of Sufi tradition.
The atmosphere quickly turned reverent yet intimate. Each repetition seemed to draw the participants deeper into remembrance, allowing the breath to sync with the divine phrase. As Sheikh Mehmed Efendi guided the gathering, Ayberk Efendi added subtle melodic variations that enriched the collective vibration. Attendees reported feeling a palpable sense of purification and unity—an inner light that lingered long after the final chant faded.
Such gatherings are more than vocal practice; they embody the Ottoman spiritual heritage of connecting heart‑to‑heart with the Divine. By coming together in Ludwigshafen, we not only honored the lineage of our saints but also reinforced the living bond among community members today.
If you feel called to experience dhikr live or wish to deepen your Sufi path, we invite you to explore our Live meetings. To stay informed about future gatherings and join a supportive network of seekers, consider becoming a member through our Membership page. May the remembrance continue to illuminate your journey.
