In this teaching we are gently reminded that every sense, limb, and faculty is a divine gift bestowed by Allah so that we may serve one another. Yet too often we focus on what seems missing—an arm, an eye, a foot—and allow those perceived deficiencies to breed contempt instead of gratitude. The message invites us to shift our perspective: when we encounter someone lacking a hand, an ear, or any other faculty, let us become that missing part for them, offering support, compassion, and sincere praise.
Divine gifts and the call to gratitude
Allah says that He has given us hands, arms, eyes, ears, tongues, minds, and countless other blessings. These are not merely tools; they are invitations to thank Him (hamd) and to recognize our dependence on His generosity. The teaching illustrates this with vivid historical examples from Ottoman times. The legendary seafarer Oruç Reis—known as “Baba Oruç”—lost an arm in battle yet continued to command fleets, conquer islands, and inspire his comrades. Rather than being cast aside for his disability, he was celebrated as a hero, reminding us that physical loss does not diminish one’s worth or capacity to serve the nation.
When we judge others by their apparent deficits—calling them “useless,” “unfit for service,” or “unable to defend the homeland”—we deny Allah’s mercy. Such judgments wound far deeper than any physical injury. The teaching urges us to see every flaw as a chance to practice gratitude: thank Allah for our own wholeness, and become the missing hand, eye, ear, or foot for those who lack them.
Living the lesson together
To embody this teaching we can begin by:
- Recognizing each of our senses and abilities as reasons to praise Allah.
- Offering practical help—listening attentively, lending a hand, sharing knowledge—to those whose faculties are limited.
- Reframing societal attitudes that marginalize people with disabilities, remembering the countless Ottoman heroes who thrived despite impairments.
When we adopt this mindset, gratitude becomes an active practice rather than a passive sentiment. We honor the Creator’s generosity and nurture a community where every member feels valued and supported.
May we all strive to be grateful for our blessings and become the very support that those without certain gifts need.
If you feel called to deepen your understanding of such teachings and join a circle of seekers, consider attending our live meetings—a space for shared remembrance, study, and spiritual growth: https://royalottomans.com/live-meetings.
