Sufi whirling dervishes

Definition

Sufi whirling dervishes are practitioners of a form of physically active meditation within Sufism, the mystical branch of Islam. This spiritual dance, known as the 'Sema,' is performed as a way to achieve spiritual ecstasy and connect with the divine. Through their spinning movements, they symbolize the journey of the soul towards God, embodying themes of love, devotion, and transcendence.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The practice of whirling originated in the 13th century with the teachings of Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi, a Persian poet and Sufi mystic.
2. During the Sema ceremony, participants wear distinctive costumes that include a tall hat (sikke) and a flowing white skirt, symbolizing their spiritual journey.
3. Whirling dervishes spin in a counterclockwise direction, representing the movement toward spiritual perfection and unity with God.
4. The performance is often accompanied by traditional music, including the use of instruments such as the ney (a type of flute), creating an immersive atmosphere for worship.
5. Sufi whirling has been recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage, highlighting its significance in promoting peace and understanding across cultures.

Review Questions

• How does the practice of whirling reflect the principles and beliefs of Sufism?
  • Whirling reflects key principles of Sufism by symbolizing the soul's journey towards God and expressing deep love and devotion. The dance allows practitioners to enter a state of spiritual ecstasy, where they can transcend the physical world and connect with the divine. This physical manifestation of spirituality highlights Sufism's emphasis on personal experience and emotional connection to faith.
• In what ways does the attire worn by whirling dervishes contribute to the symbolism within their practice?
  • The attire worn by whirling dervishes plays a significant role in enhancing the symbolic meaning of their practice. The tall hat (sikke) represents tombstones, symbolizing death to the ego, while the flowing white skirt embodies the soul's transformation and purity. Together, these garments signify a dervish's dedication to surrendering oneself to God and attaining spiritual enlightenment through their dance.
• Evaluate the impact of cultural recognition on the practice of Sufi whirling and its role in fostering cross-cultural dialogue.
  • Cultural recognition, such as UNESCO's designation of Sufi whirling as an intangible cultural heritage, has positively impacted its preservation and appreciation worldwide. This acknowledgment not only elevates the practice's status but also encourages understanding and respect among different cultures. By showcasing whirling as an expression of spirituality and love, it serves as a bridge for dialogue between diverse communities, promoting values of peace and unity across cultural divides.

Related terms

Sufism: A mystical Islamic belief system that emphasizes the inward search for God and seeks a personal experience of the divine.

Sema: The ceremonial dance performed by the whirling dervishes, which serves as a means of reaching spiritual enlightenment and union with God.

Mevlevi Order: A Sufi order founded by the followers of the poet Rumi, known for its practice of whirling as a form of meditation and religious expression.