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Whirling Dervishes

The members of the Mevlevi order, which took its name after the Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi, are also known as the Whirling Dervishes. This Sufi order, was an ascetic community of Islam, which advocate that the destiny of the humans depends on the will of God. The element that was prevailed was the mysticism, which was seen as a step to the spiritual life!

The Sufi order was affected by traditions and philosophies such as Neo-Platonism, Gnosticism, Buddhism and also Christianity. Believing that "all traditions lead to one and single truth", the teachings from the different religions, played a significant role to them. The existence of the Whirling Dervishes, was very important in the evolution of the Ottoman culture, such as classical poetry, calligraphy, visual arts, music and more.

whirling dervishes

Nowadays, you can enjoy a Whirling Dervish ceremony at many places in Istanbul and admire this amazing show! The ceremony, which is called ‘Sema’, consists of seven parts, each of them symbolizing a different meaning, such as the love to God, humankind and all creations:

  • Natt-i Şerif: Praise for God the Creator
  • Kudum: The beating of a small drum symbolizes the command of God which created the universe
  • Ney: The open-ended reed flute of the Mevlevi, symbolizes the breathing of life into all creatures
  • Greeting: The dervishes greet each other three times
  • Whirling: He whirls right to left, with his heart at the axis of the turn. The dervishes complete four whirling sessions of approximately 15 minutes each, resting briefly between sessions. The Sheikh Efendi joins in the final session, turning slowly.
  • Prayer: Prayers are recited from the Kur’an
  • Fatiha: Recitation of the Fatiha, or first chapter of the Kur’an, in memory of all prophets, martyrs and believers

You can enjoy a Mevlevi Show, at several places in the city. The most famous ones are, the Galata Mevlevihanesi, located at the end of Istiklal Street. Investing in Istanbul is going to be easier, when you visit all the parts of the city, trying to explore its beauty. Another place to admire the show, is at the Sirkeci Train Station. And Hodjapasha dance theatre, is by far the best venue to enjoy a Whirling Dervish ceremony, at its atmospheric environment! Hodjapasha is located near Sirkeci Station, at the old part of the city, where you can find dozens of Turkish properties.