On the evening of 22 December 2012 the Royal Ottoman Society gathered in Ludwigshafen for a collective meditation led by Sheikh Bahauddin Efendi together with Ayberk Efendi. Participants settled into a quiet hall, allowing the space to become a vessel for the timeless Sufi practice of dhikr.
The session unfolded through a simple yet profound cycle of remembrance: the declaration of faith (Ashhadu an lā ilāha illā Allāh, wa ashhadu anna Muḥammadan rasūlu‑llāh), repeated pleas for forgiveness (Astaghfirullāh), and the exaltation Allāhu akbar. These phrases were uttered rhythmically, each breath aligning with the words so that the heart could settle into a steady beat. The continuous chant created an atmosphere of inner stillness, inviting every seeker present to feel the presence of the Divine in the shared vibration.
Ayberk Efendi’s gentle guidance kept the circle focused, reminding participants to let the repetition cleanse the mind and open the heart. As the dhikr resonated throughout the room, the collective energy deepened, turning the simple words into a living experience of love and unity.
For those who wish to partake in similar gatherings or explore further teachings, we welcome you to join our upcoming live meetings — details are available on our website: https://royalottomans.com/live-meetings. May the echo of this night’s remembrance continue to illuminate our paths toward divine closeness.
