This talk explores a prophetic scenario that connects the historic spirit of the Ottoman Empire with the awaited appearance of Imam Mahdi (peace be upon him). It describes a series of upheavals, a global catastrophe, nuclear conflict and mass bloodshed, that would plunge humanity into deep despair. At the height of this darkness, a banner is said to rise in Bosnia under the leadership of Sultan Selim IV, gathering forces to defend Istanbul against an occupying power, whether Russian or American. This second conquest of Constantinople, foretold in hadith as the renewed capture of Şark‑ı Roma (Eastern Rome), would prepare the way for Imam Mahdi, who will halt the war.
According to the account, the banner carried by the Bosnian believers would be received by a revered figure at the shrine of Eyüp Sultan. From there the sword of the Prophet (peace be upon him) would pass through a chain of custodians, first the Ottoman lineage, then Imam Mahdi, and finally ʿĪsā (A.S.), symbolising the restoration of divine justice. Bosnia thus appears as the crucible in which the forces supporting the Mahdi are formed.
The talk invites us to consider how our own dedication to the Ottoman heritage relates to these prophecies. By preserving the spiritual teachings, ethical values and solidarity of the Ottoman Sufi tradition, we become part of a living legacy. The Royal Ottoman Society encourages seekers to deepen this connection through study, zikr and our gatherings.
If you feel called to walk this path with fellow seekers, membership gives access to deeper resources and to live meetings where Bayʿah can be taken and such topics are discussed: Membership | Live meetings.
