In this sohbet the gathering was invited to contemplate what true üstünlük (“superiority”) means from a Sufi perspective. Ayberk Efendi reminded us that worldly honours—ministerial titles, doctorates, engineering degrees—are not markers of genuine elevation before Allah. The only lasting superiority arises when the heart surrenders completely to the One who possesses absolute strength and mercy.
The teaching began with a simple image: a single drop of water placed in the ocean becomes part of an immeasurable whole; on its own, it evaporates and disappears. Likewise, a seeker who clings only to personal ambition remains a solitary drop, while one who attaches his will to the Infinite merges into the boundless reality of Allah’s presence. This attachment brings not only inner peace but a superiority that no human authority can undermine.
Ayberk Efendi emphasised that true superiority is inseparable from submission to the Highest Power. The Qur’an, described as Ümmü’l‑Kitâb—the Mother of the Book—is presented as the ultimate source of guidance, above all other knowledge. Memorising verses or revering scholars for their academic achievements is not enough if one has not first turned toward Allah: “If you look only to professors, doctors or leaders, you remain bound by the limits of their perspective; true elevation lies beyond them.”
The sohbet also addressed a common pitfall: questioning or criticising a sheikh out of a personal desire for autonomy. Such criticism often shows that the seeker has not yet embraced the path with humility. In Sufi practice the master is a conduit of divine light, and the disciple’s task is to hold firmly to that guidance and let it transform the self. Ayberk Efendi urged listeners to abandon endless analysis and embody the simplicity of obedience: “When the sheikh advises, follow; do not let your own preferences distract you from the route that leads toward Allah.”
Superiority in this world is fleeting, but a soul anchored in divine surrender enjoys an everlasting rank. Just as water cannot be confined once it has become part of the sea, a heart merged with Allah’s will knows no limits.
For those who wish to explore these teachings further within a supportive community, our live meetings offer the opportunity to take Bayʿah and to join the collective zikr. More information can be found on our Live Meetings page.
