From Eyüp Sultan to the Underground Mosque, those blessed guests who carried the Prophet's scent to Istanbul.
Abu Ayyub al-Ansari (RA), that great companion who hosted our Prophet in his house in Medina for 7 months... When he was over 90 years old, he hit the road to attain the good news 'Istanbul will surely be conquered' and surrendered his soul at the foot of the walls. Today, his tomb is the spiritual capital of Turkey. Being in Eyüp Sultan Mosque at morning prayer, breathing that spiritual air gives one the feeling of being in Medina. He is the standard-bearer and eternal guest of Istanbul.
In Karaköy, close to the Galata Tower, there is a mysterious mosque underground: The Underground Mosque. This is actually the cellar where the chains closing the mouth of the Golden Horn were tied. Inside, there are the stations of Amr ibn al-As, Wahb ibn Hushayra, and Sufyan ibn Uyaynah (RA). With its dim light, low ceiling, and deep silence, it takes one back centuries. This place, which even most Istanbulites do not know, is a spiritual treasure room under the city.
"Istanbul is not only a branch of the Ottoman Empire but also of the Age of Bliss (Asr-ı Saadet). How? More than 20 companions (Sahaba) who saw the face of our Prophet (PBUH), heard his voice, and traveled thousands of kilometers to attain His good news and fell martyr lie in these lands. They are the spiritual guardians of the city, our most valuable neighbors. Before taking a Bosphorus tour today, let's knock on the door of these blessed guests."
Living in Istanbul or coming to Istanbul and not visiting Eyüp Sultan is like not saying 'hello' to the host. Not only him; other companions lying in the Underground Mosque in Karaköy, at the bottom of the Ayvansaray walls also wait for their visitors. Standing at their graves reminds us how Islam came to these lands with sacrifices. Escape the noise of the city and take refuge in their presence. Be sure, those silent stones have a lot to tell you. Istanbul is still standing for their sake.
