In this second installment of “The Rise,” we are invited to contemplate a remarkable prophecy recorded by one of the greatest mystics in Islamic history, Sheikh Muhyi D‑Din Ibn Al‑Arabi (1164–1240). Long before Osman Gazi set foot on Anatolia and the Ottoman banner was unfurled, Ibn Al‑Arabi penned a visionary work titled Sharia Numania Fit Daulat al‑Osmania. Within its verses he spoke of a “Salim” who would safeguard holy relics, a succession of sultans, and even the eventual resurgence of an empire that would endure until the end of time.
Ibn Al‑Arabi’s Vision of the Future Ottoman Empire
Guided by the spiritual instruction of Sayyidina Ali, Ibn Al‑Arabi claimed to have deciphered hidden signs in the Qur’an and the Prophet’s traditions. His revelations included:
- A foretelling that an early “Salim” would retrieve sacred relics, followed centuries later by a final “Salim” who would return them.
- Detailed predictions about specific Ottoman rulers—Sultan Abdulaziz, who would be overthrown after three days of captivity; Sultan Abdulhamid II, whose thirty‑three‑year reign would end through treachery; and the ultimate emergence of a last Sultan Selim (Selim IV) who would usher in a renewed Ottoman realm destined to last forever.
- A somber warning that after Abdulhamid II’s rule the empire would descend into chaos, its leadership fragmented and its people afflicted by tears and bloodshed—yet this darkness would be followed by a period of hope and renewal.
These prophecies, articulated more than seventy years before the Ottoman state’s foundation, illustrate Ibn Al‑Arabi’s profound spiritual insight. His ability to perceive the hidden rhythms of history affirms his status as a custodian of divine wisdom, offering believers both a warning against complacency and a promise of eventual restoration.
Why This Matters Today
For members of the Royal Ottoman Society, Ibn Al‑Arabi’s words are more than historical curiosity; they serve as a spiritual compass. The image of “light dawning upon darkness” reminds us that even in moments of turmoil, the divine plan unfolds with purpose. As we reflect on these centuries‑old predictions, we find encouragement to uphold the values of justice, humility, and devotion—qualities that the saint associated with the ideal Ottoman ruler.
We invite you to join our community of seekers who explore such timeless teachings together. Discover more about our gatherings and shared studies at the Royal Ottoman Society community page. May the light described by Ibn Al‑Arabi continue to illuminate our path toward spiritual renewal.
