On 22 August 2023 the Royal Ottoman Society gathered for a heartfelt sohbet in Amersfoort, inviting every participant to pause, cleanse the heart, and rediscover the deeper dimensions of faith. The gathering opened with the Kelime‑i Şehada, reminding us that just as we take a physical shower each morning, uttering the testimony of faith refreshes our iman.
In this sohbet the opening declaration “Bismillahir rahmanir rahim” was repeated several times to bring a fresh start. The act was likened to ghusl—the full ritual washing—that purifies both body and soul. By speaking the Shahada aloud we symbolically pour out past neglect, inviting divine mercy anew.
The discussion then turned to the nature of true purification. When water flows over our bodies it removes visible grime; likewise sincere dhikr sweeps away inner stains such as pride, ingratitude, and heedlessness. The talk highlighted that many peoples’ complaints about illness stem from a lack of spiritual cleansing—“illness enters through the mouth” when we consume ungrateful speech or thoughts.
Gratitude for Allah’s blessings formed another central theme. Modern life often leads us to overlook the bounty surrounding us, turning even food into a source of disease if taken without thankfulness. Participants were encouraged to pause before each meal, raise their hands in gratitude, and let that awareness become a protective shield against both physical and spiritual malaise.
A powerful reminder was offered through the practice of visiting those who are suffering. In this teaching the gathering urged us to visit the bedridden, go to the graveyard, and even step into a tannery as tangible signs of life’s fleeting nature. Confronting suffering directly sharpens our appreciation for each breath, cultivates humility, and trains the heart to cherish every moment.
The sohbet also addressed a troubling trend that has emerged in parts of Europe: the public burning or tearing of the Qur’an. This act was described as a fashionable yet deeply misguided manifestation of ignorance. While some perpetrators claim legal protection, true justice rooted in divine wisdom cannot be achieved through such acts of blasphemy. The gathering called for collective vigilance—defending the holy text not with violence but with steadfast love, education, and lawful advocacy.
Finally, the importance of turning knowledge into action was emphasized. Knowledge without practice remains hollow; therefore each participant was reminded to integrate gratitude, regular remembrance, and compassionate outreach into daily life. A closing prayer asked Allah to grant understanding, patience, and strength so that the teachings revisited today become lived realities.
If you feel inspired to deepen your spiritual journey alongside fellow seekers, consider joining our live meetings where we explore these themes together: https://royalottomans.com/live-meetings. May Allah guide us all toward a renewed, luminous faith.
