On a blessed Saturday evening the Royal Ottoman Society gathered for a heartfelt sohbet led by Sheikh Mehmed Küçük. The gathering opened with gratitude to Allah Celle Celâluhu, abundant blessings upon the Prophet, his family and the saints, and a warm welcome to brothers and sisters joining in person as well as those watching from home.
Opening Blessings and Unity
Sheikh Mehmed began by thanking the Almighty for bringing the community together in what he described as “the earth’s garden of paradise.” He expressed appreciation for the German brothers Daniel Efendi, Ahmet Haşim Efendi and many other friends who were present, noting their sincere prayers that highlighted unity, compassion, mercy and the true essence of Islam.
He then addressed those who unjustly criticize or spread false accusations against the tekkes. While acknowledging that such words hold no weight before Allah, he reminded listeners that slander can unintentionally block sincere seekers from the path, and that every person will be held accountable for harming others in this life and the next.
Understanding Fıtrat and Its Role in Family Life
A striking anecdote was shared: Ayberk Efendi had sent a video of a lion whose roar seemed to utter the divine name “Hu.” This reminded everyone that all creatures continuously remember Allah. The humble donkey, for example, is said to repeat the Name of God five thousand times each day—a natural benchmark that invites humanity, as vice‑gerents of the earth, to strive for even greater remembrance.
From this observation the talk moved to the core concept of fıtrat—the innate nature with which every soul is created. While character is shaped by upbringing, education and environment, fıtrat remains a divine gift that defines essential roles:
- Men are naturally protective, confident and inclined to provide support. When they assume behaviours meant for women—commanding, belittling or humiliating their wives—they deviate from this nature, leading inevitably to discord.
- Women embody love, care and the need for protection. A husband who honors this disposition by offering confidence, companionship and sincere affection creates a harmonious household.
Sheikh Mehmed recounted many nikahs he has officiated and observed that disputes often arise when partners abandon their natural roles. He emphasized a simple remedy: let the word of Allah and the teachings of the Prophet govern every home. When divine guidance leads, peace follows.
The discussion also touched on modern pressures, especially extravagant wedding expectations that can plunge couples into debts of tens or hundreds of thousands of euros. Citing an old proverb—“stretch your foot only as far as the blanket you have”—the speaker urged a return to modesty, aligning spending with genuine means so that financial strain does not undermine spiritual well‑being.
A prophetic warning was recalled: in the latter days people will burden women and families with impossible expectations, driving them toward hardship and even sin. Recognizing this, the community is called to protect each other’s fıtrat, preserving harmony within families and the wider society.
The sohbet concluded with a reminder to serve Allah together, compete in good deeds, and refrain from slandering one another. By embracing our innate nature and nurturing each other’s strengths, the Society can flourish as a living garden of Paradise on earth.
For those wishing to explore these teachings further, our digital library offers additional resources: Royal Ottoman Library.
