Nations or states sometimes try to invent heroes and history in order to become a nation. They expect their generations, who potentially need role models, to build the future by following the example of these heroes and history. We, on the other hand, possess a natural cultural fabric and a rich history. Our history is filled with our great ancestors, who possess spiritual purity and depth, and who have succeeded in elevating masses of people to the pinnacle of virtue through our treasures of culture, science, thought, and politics. Therefore, we have no need to invent imaginary heroes or imaginary history. It is extremely important to reveal their spiritual greatness, exemplary morals, thoughts and feelings, to present them to humanity, and to set them as examples for young people who are seen as the hope of the future, both in terms of our cultural history and as a model for the future.
The late M. Esad Coşan Hocaefendi mentioned the idea that ‘people who know their worth will emerge from among nations that know their worth.’ He sought to introduce the heart architects who had been a beacon of hope for people during their lifetimes, who had guided them when they lost their way, and who had a passion for life for the masses. During his lifetime, he gave many speeches about our elders, organised symposiums and meetings, wrote articles, and encouraged others to write. Additionally, he aimed to keep their memories alive by naming local civil society organisations established with his advice after them.
For he knew that people seek beautiful examples and role models to emulate. Among those about whom Hocaefendi spoke were Hz. Ali, Ebû Eyyûb el-Ensârî, İmâm-ı Âzam, Ahmed-i Yesevî, Mevlânâ Celâleddîn-i Rûmî, Hacı Bektâş-ı Velî, and Yunus Emre. Among the personalities for whom he organised symposiums and various programmes in memory are Ahmed-i Yesevi, Ahmed Ziyâüddîn-i Gümüşhânevî, Zahid-i Kevserî, Çırpılarlı Ali Efendi, Necip Fazıl Kısakürek, and Ali Yakup Cenkçiler. He has also written independent articles about Mehmed Zahid Efendi, his teacher Necati Lugal, Ali Yakup Cenkçiler, and Muammer Dolmacı.
Life is lived forward and understood backward. With this work, Hocaefendi has built a bridge between the past, present, and future of our nation. While opening new horizons for our people, this work will also provide them with intellectual and spiritual support and security.
