The Mevlevi Order and Its Religious Practices

Abstract

The Mevlevi Order, rooted in the teachings and spiritual legacy of Mevlâna Jalaluddin Rumi, represents a significant tradition in Islamic mysticism. This study explores the historical evolution, religious practices, and contemporary state of the Mevlevi Order. The research examines Mevlâna's life and highlights his early influences, educational background, and the critical encounters that shaped his spiritual journey. The study then traces the development of the Mevlevi Order from its origins in the 13th century, detailing how it gradually institutionalized its practices and rituals, including introducing specific disciplines into its ceremonies. A comparative analysis method is employed to understand how Mevlevi practices relate to those of other Sufi orders, with a particular focus on the rituals of dhikr (remembrance of Allah), sema (spiritual music and dance), and seclusion in retreats (çilehane). The research also considers the transformations the order underwent post-Mevlâna, emphasizing the importance of understanding these changes to grasp the full scope of Mevlevi practices.

Keywords

• islam
• sufism
• prayer
• mevlâna
• rumi
• mevlevi order