In this heartfelt sohbet, Ayberk Efendi reminds us of a timeless saying of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him): “A person is with those they love.” Repeating this phrase throughout the talk, he invites us to pause and contemplate the company we keep, the hearts that shape our inner compass, and how our spiritual state mirrors the people we cherish.
The teaching serves as a simple yet powerful diagnostic tool. If we wish to understand someone’s character, we can look at whom they love and admire; their beloved companions act like mirrors, revealing hidden inclinations, priorities, and even potential pitfalls. Ayberk Efendi notes that the early Companions (Sahâb-ı Kirâm) held this hadith close to their hearts, celebrating it as a source of joy and guidance. By constantly evaluating their own associations, they ensured that their spiritual “chain” – the link that connects each believer to the Prophet and ultimately to Allah – remained unbroken.
When believers gather in sincere fellowship, each link strengthens the whole. A single broken link can weaken the entire formation, leaving an individual vulnerable to doubt or misguidance. Therefore, we are called to be vigilant about the quality of our connections:
- Choose companions whose love points upward, drawing us nearer to the Prophet’s example and, through him, to Allah.
- Ensure that our own “rope” reaches toward divine truth rather than merely worldly attachments.
Ayberk Efendi cautions against assuming safety simply because a community appears respectable on the surface. True safety lies in the depth of the connections within that community, not just its outward appearance. He encourages us to observe our own affection: ask who we consistently think about, whose advice we seek, and whose presence lifts our spirit. By aligning our hearts with the prophetic chain and seeking guidance from teachers firmly attached to the tradition, we create a resilient, spiritually nourishing environment.
May this reflection inspire each of us to examine the company we keep, to nurture bonds that lift us toward the Divine, and to walk together on the Sufi path with hearts united in love and remembrance.
If you feel moved by these words, consider joining our community of seekers where such teachings are lived out daily. You can learn more about our gatherings here: Community.
May your heart always be drawn toward those who bring you closer to Allah.
