The Role of Women in Sufism. Female Followers of Mevlevi Order and Their Active Participation in Sema Ritual Cover Image

The Role of Women in Sufism. Female Followers of Mevlevi Order and Their Active Participation in Sema Ritual
The Role of Women in Sufism. Female Followers of Mevlevi Order and Their Active Participation in Sema Ritual

Author(s): Milda Mandziarz-Kuźmiński
Subject(s): Theatre, Dance, Performing Arts, Gender Studies, Customs / Folklore, Islam studies
Published by: OFFICINA SIMONIDIS. Wydawnictwo Uczelni Państwowej im. Szymona Szymonowica w Zamościu
Keywords: Mevlana; Rumi; Sufism; Sema; Female Sufis; Mevlevi Order; Whirling Dervishes;

Summary/Abstract: Sema ritual identified with Rumi Mevlana’s order, known as Mevlevi Religion of Love, has been attracting people from different cultures from all over the world for centuries. Mevlevi followers are noticeably growing in number in the West, where their great engagement is well visible. Sema, which is a mystic dancing ritual known from the 13th century, represents man’s spiritual journey to Perfection through mind and love. Mevlevi as one of the most-known Sufi orders was exceptional for Rumi’s recognition of spiritual beauty and wisdom of women. Mevlana was accepting and teaching men and women alike, as he said that it is not the body but the soul that is important. He taught that all humans are equal and are united in their faith and love. Many female Sufis decided to fallow Mevlana’s teachings practicing sema that aims at “Unity with God”, truly convinced that they found their place within Islamic world. Women, who had noticeable role in the process of spreading this mystical concept have been playing multiple roles, i.e.: poets, musicians, and sometimes even pirs, becoming “the voice” of feminine Muslim society.

  • Issue Year: 7/2014
  • Issue No: 1
  • Page Range: 149-161
  • Page Count: 13
  • Language: English