What is the point of the whirling dervish?
What is the point of the whirling dervish?
The Whirling Dervishes Festival is in a class all of its own, highlighting a spiritual dance form that is believed to help dancers attain a union with God. Who are the Whirling Dervishes? The Whirling Dervishes are a part of the Sufi branch of Islam, known for its mysticism and asceticism.
Are there still whirling dervishes?
In 1956, even though legislation still outlawed these Sufi sects, the Turkish government revived the whirling dervish ceremony as a cultural asset. Dancers began to perform on the anniversary of the death of Rumi, a tradition that has led to an annual nine-day December festival in Konya.
What is the whirling dervish in Turkey?
The Mevlevis are also known as the “whirling dervishes” due to their famous practice of whirling as a form of dhikr (remembrance of God). Dervish is a common term for an initiate of the Sufi path; whirling is part of the formal sema ceremony and the participants are properly known as semazens.
Is whirling dervish worth it?
Seeing whirling dervishes is an unforgettable experience. It is a must-do when visiting Istanbul. The performance will leave a forever mark in any viewer’s soul. This experience is worth so much more than the price of the ticket.
Where can I watch whirling dervishes in Istanbul?
The Galata Mevlevi Museum
Where to Best Catch a Whirling Dervishes Performance? The Galata Mevlevi Museum, or tekke, is undoubtedly the most famous Mevlevi Whirling Dervish hall. It is located on Galipdede Caddesi, not far from Tünel at the end of Istiklal Caddesi. The ceremony takes place every Sunday at 17:00.
Where can I watch Sufi dance in Istanbul?
The Galata Mevlevi Museum, or tekke, is undoubtedly the most famous Mevlevi Whirling Dervish hall. It is located on Galipdede Caddesi, not far from Tünel at the end of Istiklal Caddesi. The ceremony takes place every Sunday at 17:00. You can only buy tickets on location starting Saturday around noon.
How long does a whirling dervish spin?
about 10-15 minutes
The whirling is done in three sections, each about 10-15 minutes in length. The movements of the feet are small and graceful. While one foot remains firmly on the ground, the other crosses it and propels the dancer round.