On Friday, 29 January 2016, the Royal Ottoman Society gathered in Mannheim, Germany, for a Sufi night under the guidance of Ayberk Efendi. Seekers from across the region came together to experience the rhythm of the Ottoman spiritual heritage in a contemporary European setting.
The gathering opened with remembrance (dhikr), inviting everyone to quiet the mind and turn inward. Traditional Naqshbandi chants filled the hall, and individual hearts joined in collective devotion. Ayberk Efendi spoke about humility, love for the Divine and the importance of standing together as a community – core principles that guide the Royal Ottoman Society to this day.
Poetry from the classical Ottoman masters was woven into the evening, along with reflections on how the Sufi path can illuminate modern life. Participants were encouraged to carry the serenity of the night into their daily routines.
The evening ended with tea and dates, in the Ottoman tradition of hospitality, and a reminder of the bond that unites our members across borders.
If you would like to join future gatherings, deepen your practice or become part of our community, you are warmly welcome:
- Become a member: royalottomans.com/membership
- Join the community conversation: enderun.royalottomans.com/feed
