Mevlevi

Definition

The Mevlevi, also known as the Whirling Dervishes, is a Sufi order founded in the 13th century by followers of the Persian poet and mystic Rumi. This order is renowned for its distinctive practice of whirling as a form of meditation and spiritual expression, which aims to reach a state of spiritual ecstasy and unity with the divine. The Mevlevi order emphasizes love, poetry, and music as pathways to experiencing God.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Mevlevi order was established in Konya, Turkey, where Rumi lived and taught, becoming a center for Sufi thought and practice.
2. Whirling is an integral practice for Mevlevi followers, symbolizing the spiritual journey of man’s ascent to perfection and unity with the divine.
3. The Mevlevi have a distinct musical tradition, featuring instruments like the ney (reed flute) and the tanbur (long-necked lute), which accompany their spiritual practices.
4. The order places a strong emphasis on poetry, with Rumi's works often recited during gatherings as a means of connecting with the divine through language and emotion.
5. The Mevlevi tradition was recognized by UNESCO in 2005 as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, highlighting its significance in cultural and spiritual contexts.

Review Questions

• How does the practice of whirling in the Mevlevi order relate to their understanding of spirituality?
  • Whirling in the Mevlevi order serves as both a physical expression of devotion and a means to achieve spiritual ecstasy. It symbolizes the soul's journey towards God, allowing practitioners to transcend their earthly limitations and connect with the divine. Through this dance, followers aim to experience unity with God, reflecting the core Sufi belief that love and devotion lead to spiritual enlightenment.
• Discuss the role of music and poetry within the Mevlevi tradition and how they enhance spiritual experiences.
  • Music and poetry are central to the Mevlevi tradition, with Rumi's poetic works serving as a vehicle for conveying profound spiritual truths. The use of instruments during ceremonies fosters an atmosphere conducive to meditation and introspection. By immersing themselves in Rumi's verses, followers are encouraged to contemplate divine love, enhancing their emotional connection to spirituality while deepening their understanding of Sufi teachings.
• Evaluate how the Mevlevi order contributes to contemporary understandings of Sufism and its relevance in modern society.
  • The Mevlevi order exemplifies how Sufism can adapt and thrive in contemporary society by emphasizing universal themes like love, peace, and tolerance. Their practices foster interfaith dialogue and cultural exchange, making Sufism accessible beyond traditional boundaries. By sharing their rich cultural heritage through whirling ceremonies and Rumi's poetry, the Mevlevi help illuminate Sufi principles for modern audiences, promoting spiritual growth and understanding in an increasingly interconnected world.

Related terms

Sufism: A mystical Islamic belief system that seeks direct personal experience of God through spiritual practices, emphasizing inner purification and love.

Rumi: Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi was a 13th-century Persian poet and Sufi mystic whose teachings and poetry are foundational to the Mevlevi order.

Dervish: A member of a Sufi order known for their ascetic lifestyle and practices aimed at achieving spiritual closeness to God, often including dance and music.