Bektášíja v Makedonii
Bektashism in Macedonia

Summary/Abstract: Nestled within the diverse religious landscape of the Balkans, the Bektashi order represents one of the most distinctive expressions of Islamic mysticism, blending elements of Sunni Islam, Shiite traditions, local customs, and Sufi spirituality. This article explores the history, beliefs, and contemporary position of the Bektashi community in North Macedonia, with particular attention to its important center in Tetovo. Originating from the teachings associated with Hacı Bektaş Veli, the order developed a unique religious tradition characterized by spiritual initiation, symbolic rituals, reverence for Ali and the Twelve Imams, and a notably inclusive attitude toward women. Unlike many other Islamic communities, Bektashis promote gender participation in religious life, reject strict social segregation, and emphasize inner morality over external appearances. The study traces the order’s historical development from its connections with the Ottoman world and the Janissary corps to its suppression in Turkey and subsequent establishment of important centers in Albania and the Balkans. Special attention is devoted to the role of the Bektashi order in North Macedonia, where it has maintained a significant religious and cultural presence despite legal challenges and disputes with mainstream Islamic institutions. The article highlights the importance of the Arabati Baba Tekke in Tetovo as both a spiritual center and a symbol of Bektashi identity. Through its examination of doctrine, ritual practices, historical transformations, and contemporary struggles, the study presents Bektashism as a unique example of religious pluralism and cultural continuity in the Balkan region.

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