Mevlevi Order Foundation; A Mystical Journey Through Sufi Poetry and Dance

The Mevlevi Order, also known as the Whirling Dervishes, stands as a testament to the enduring power of spirituality and artistic expression within Islam. Founded in the 13th century by followers of the renowned Persian poet and mystic Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Rūmī, this Sufi order captivated hearts and minds with its unique blend of poetry recitation, music, and whirling dance, known as the “Sama.”

Rumi himself was a remarkable figure, a scholar who delved deeply into Islamic theology and philosophy while simultaneously composing some of the most beautiful and profound poetry ever written. His words transcended cultural boundaries, resonating with individuals seeking spiritual enlightenment regardless of their faith or background. His poems often explored themes of love, loss, unity, and the search for divine connection, reflecting his own journey through intense emotional experiences.

Following Rumi’s death in 1273, his followers sought to preserve his legacy and teachings. Led by his son, Sultan Walad, they established the Mevlevi Order. This order wasn’t just about reciting Rumi’s poetry; it was a holistic approach to spiritual development. The whirling dance, known as the Sama, became a central practice within the order.

Imagine a circle of men clad in long white robes, their heads covered with tall, conical hats. As haunting melodies fill the air, they begin to whirl slowly at first, then faster and faster, arms outstretched, seeming to defy gravity. This isn’t just an acrobatic feat; it’s a deeply symbolic act representing the whirling dervishes’ journey towards spiritual union with God.

The right hand is turned upwards toward heaven, symbolizing receptivity to divine grace. The left hand is pointed downwards towards the earth, signifying groundedness and connection to the material world. With each turn, they transcend earthly concerns, seeking to merge with the divine.

Their movements are fluid and graceful, meticulously choreographed yet imbued with a sense of spontaneous joy and surrender. It’s a mesmerizing spectacle that has captivated audiences for centuries.

But the Mevlevi Order is more than just its captivating dance. It emphasizes inner transformation through practices such as:

The Mevlevi Order played a crucial role in spreading Rumi’s teachings throughout the Ottoman Empire and beyond. Their lodges (tekke) became centers of cultural exchange and intellectual discourse, attracting people from all walks of life.

However, the order faced challenges over time. During the early 20th century, with the rise of nationalism and secularism in Turkey, the Mevlevi Order was suppressed along with other Sufi orders. Their tekkes were closed down, and the practice of whirling was banned.

Yet, like a resilient rose pushing through cracks in concrete, the Mevlevi tradition endured. In the 1950s, with the encouragement of Turkish authorities seeking to promote cultural tourism, the Mevlevi Order was allowed to revive. Today, the Konya Mevlevi Lodge serves as a reminder of this rich tradition and continues to perform the Sama ceremony for visitors from around the world.

The Mevlevi Order’s story is a testament to the enduring power of spirituality and artistic expression. It reminds us that even in challenging times, there is always hope for renewal and the ability of human spirit to persevere through adversity. Witnessing the whirling dervishes dance is an experience that transcends words; it’s a visceral connection to something ancient and profound, reminding us that within each of us lies the potential for spiritual awakening and unity with something greater than ourselves.

If you ever have the opportunity, don’t miss out on witnessing this extraordinary spectacle firsthand.