On 4 June 2016, members of the Royal Ottoman Society gathered in Berlin for a “Großer Konversationsabend” (grand conversation evening) hosted by the Ottoman Sufi Center. The event brought together seekers from across the city to share reflections on the Sufi path, Ottoman cultural heritage, and the timeless teachings that unite both.
Traditional Ottoman melodies formed a gentle backdrop for the evening’s sohbet. Participants sat in circles on cushions and carpets, which encouraged open dialogue. In true Sufi fashion, the gathering valued listening as much as speaking; each voice was honored, each story treated as a seed of wisdom.
The program did not follow a formal lecture format. Several respected members, among them long‑time guides of our community, offered brief reflections on humility (tevazu) in daily life, on dhikr (remembrance) as a source of inner strength, and on how Ottoman history can inspire spiritual practice today. Their words sparked lively discussions about balancing modern responsibilities with the longing for a deeper connection to the Divine.
The evening also showed the Society’s commitment to a living community rooted in both spirituality and cultural identity. Attendees exchanged contact details, discussed upcoming workshops, and made plans for future journeys to historic sites in Turkey and the former Ottoman lands.
The night closed with a collective dhikr, a fitting reminder that every gathering, intimate or grand, is a step on the shared journey toward inner illumination.
If you feel called to join us for future events, deepen your practice, or become part of our growing community, we invite you to explore membership and stay connected through our channels. Membership offers access to regular meetings, special lectures, and a supportive network of fellow seekers.
- Become a member: https://royalottomans.com/membership
- Join the community conversation: https://enderun.royalottomans.com/feed
We look forward to welcoming you at the next gathering.
