Teachers and scholars exist to impart their inspiration and teaching, then step away. What they leave behind becomes a legacy to be practiced. Since the passing of our beloved leader, the reminder I’ve been sharing with all the wonderful brothers and sisters in the movement is the same one I give you now: we are here not just for a memorial service, but to celebrate a life of inspired living and teaching. And you all are blessed to be part of that movement to carry that legacy forward. Hold on to the beautiful memories—tears will come, but I’d love for you to wear a smile as well. I say to each Hizmet brother and sister from the bottom of my heart that this is a moment to celebrate that you have been inspired and now have a legacy to live on.

From an Islamic perspective, we must appreciate the saintly qualities that Imam Fethullah Gülen so clearly demonstrated for us to observe and learn from. His exceptional piety, wisdom, and devotion stemmed from his high level of taqwa (piety) — a profound fear and reverence for God Almighty. They were also rooted in his ihsan (excellence), striving for moral and spiritual growth; his ‘ilm (knowledge), encompassing a deep understanding of Islam, theology, and jurisprudence, coupled with the ability to put that knowledge into practice. His wara‘ — maintaining distance from worldly desires while using the best of this world without becoming attached to it — and his tawakkul, complete reliance on the Lord’s will and provisions, further defined his character.

He clearly was destined to become the master teacher that he ended up being, inspiring and tremendously influencing Muslims around the globe and people of other faiths, too, as is witnessed by the lovers of the movement here and around the world. He guided us toward higher standards of human excellence, rooted in the Prophetic characteristics that believers recognize. His efforts aimed to elevate human moral character and actions to the divinely guided threshold of the highest level of excellence—ahsan al-taqwim.

He inspired us through his teachings, lectures, and actions to excel in virtues while avoiding any wrongdoing. His all-encompassing love, goodness, and compassion radiated not only in his lectures and writings but especially in his presence.

I was deeply moved when I had the honor of accompanying dear brothers and sisters from the movement last year to be in his presence. You could feel a profound personal connection. There were hundreds in the room, and out of respect, I quietly entered and sat down, keeping my gaze lowered. Then, I noticed people pointing toward me, and I realized he was saying, “Get up and sit on that chair.”

I did as instructed and again kept my head bowed out of reverence. Then, someone pointed out that he was gesturing toward a cup of coffee beside him, saying, “Take it.” Embarrassed, I hesitated but eventually took the cup and held it in my hands, still looking down. Moments later, someone nudged me again because he was now saying, “Drink it.”

It was an incredible experience because he extended that same warmth to hundreds of people in that room and to millions around the world who have been inspired by him. There was a unique personal connection, a spiritual exuberance, love, and goodness that surrounded him. He inspired this movement of millions to act gracefully in all circumstances, with affection and humility.

My dear brothers and sisters, let the tears flow as your hearts soften, but keep that smile, for it symbolizes your commitment to carrying this legacy forward. As I have repeatedly emphasized in my reflections on the Hizmet movement over the years: these inspirational teachings are not meant to be kept to yourselves. This is not solely a Turkish gift or a gift for the Turkish people. It is a gift for all of humanity, for Muslims and people around the globe.

What has the master scholar left? Allow me to give you a different perspective: it is not a void. It is a tremendously magnetic and inspiring force that shall continue to draw millions around the world onto this path of love, goodness, caring, tolerance, wisdom and sharing, so that we may all grow together in excellence and in the service of humanity.

May Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala admit our Imam Fethullah Gülen, into the highest annals of Paradise, inshallah (God-willing). And may He bring comfort and ease to those feeling this loss, inspiring us all to embrace and carry forward the wonderful legacy Imam Fethullah Gülen has left behind.