The Prophet's Lovers Foundation (Peygamber Sevdalıları Vakfı) recently hosted a moving event called “Night of the Martyrs” in Elazığ, bringing together scholars, community leaders, and local residents for an evening centered on the themes of martyrdom, jihad consciousness, and the unity of the Muslim ummah.

The gathering, which took place at the Municipal Cultural Center, saw strong attendance from across the city. Among the notable participants were HÜDA PAR Elazığ Provincial Chairman Metin Suiçer, İTTİHADUL ULEMA scholar Mehmet Beşir Varol, and many devoted citizens.Hosted by Muhsin Bektaş, the program opened with a beautiful Qur’an recitation by Talha Karataş. 

The evening was further enriched by soul-stirring religious hymns performed by Hikmet Kıyançiçek and Burhanettin Cebba, fostering a deeply reflective and spiritually uplifting mood.

Writer Ayhan Aktan delivered the main address, offering an in-depth exploration of what true martyrdom means and why preserving a strong Islamic identity and solidarity is so vital today.

Aktan pointed out that the concept of jihad is frequently misunderstood or distorted, causing some Muslims to shy away from it. He portrayed the genuine mujahid as someone who stands firm against injustice and oppression, undeterred by powerful influences or intimidation. Drawing inspiration from the steadfastness in Gaza, he highlighted the powerful declaration “Hasbunallah wa ni‘mal wakeel” (Allah is sufficient for us, and He is the best disposer of affairs) as a profound expression of unshakeable trust in God.

Citing a well-known hadith that calls jihad the pinnacle of the faith and martyrdom its loftiest peak, Aktan described martyrdom as a divine honor that Allah bestows upon whomever He wills. While believers are obligated to strive in the path of faith, he emphasized that achieving martyrdom is ultimately a special grace granted by divine choice.

He also shared the inspiring story of Umayr ibn Humam during the Battle of Badr, whose eager longing for martyrdom exemplified deep conviction and devotion.

In closing his speech, Aktan spoke of the spiritual depth of martyrdom—not as a mere slogan, but as an exalted rank of closeness to Allah that few attain.The program wrapped up with a touching theatrical presentation by young performers depicting the Martyrs of Susa, powerfully conveying messages of sacrifice, courage, and unwavering commitment.

According to the organizers, the event sought to deepen faith, heighten awareness of our collective responsibility as a community, and inspire greater unity amid ongoing challenges. (ILKHA)