In this sohbet, Jalaluddin Efendi and Ayberk Efendi explore what it means to recognise and surrender to the true guide on the spiritual path. The conversation moves between Turkish, German and occasional Arabic, reflecting the many cultures within the Royal Ottoman Society.
Trusting the Heart
The speakers begin by reminding us that the heart (kalp) is the seeker’s primary compass. The intellect (akıl) can illuminate, but it is the whispers that arise in the heart each day, five distinct “fısıltı” that test our discernment, that shape our inner reality. Placing absolute trust in the heart makes us vulnerable to forgetfulness; yet this very vulnerability can open us to a deeper awareness of the divine presence.
Heart-Trust and Sheikh-Trust
A clear distinction is drawn between trusting one’s own heart and surrendering (teslim) to the Sheikh (şeyh). Trusting the heart brings personal insight, but it does not carry the responsibility that comes with surrender to a guide. A true disciple, the speakers emphasise, submits to the Sheikh, who bears the responsibility of leading us towards salvation (kurtuluş). In German they say:
“Er gebe dich, sonst erschieß ich dich.”
This stark image illustrates that without surrender we are in spiritual danger, whereas surrender protects us from the “bullet” of the ego’s misdirection.
Obedience When the Leader Is Not Perfect
The conversation turns to a common dilemma: how to relate to a leader who may err. Citing Qur’anic verses, they explain that even an unjust ruler is to be obeyed as long as he does not command transgression, because obedience preserves communal order and leaves room for divine change. If Allah does not change a leader’s conduct, they say, the community has earned this circumstance and must strive for righteousness despite outer shortcomings.
An Example: Khalid bin Walid
Ayberk Efendi recounts an episode from early Islamic history involving Khalid bin Walid. When a companion took the wealth of a defeated enemy, Khalid ruled that the spoils belonged to the community, not to the individual. True leadership puts the common good before personal gain, and humility before authority is essential for spiritual growth.
Looking Inward First
A recurring theme is self-examination rather than criticism of leaders. The speakers counsel seekers to “calculate their own mistakes” before judging those in authority, in line with the Sufi principle that the path to closeness with God begins within.
If this sohbet resonated with you and you wish to deepen your practice under the guidance of our sheikhs, consider joining one of our live meetings, where Bayʿah (spiritual allegiance) can be taken.
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