Mawlawiyya
Mawlawiyya, also known as the Whirling Dervishes, is a Sufi order founded in the 13th century by the Persian poet and mystic Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi. This spiritual practice emphasizes the pursuit of divine love and connection through music, poetry, and dance, particularly the iconic spinning dance performed by its followers.
The dance, known as the Sema, symbolizes the soul's journey towards God. Participants wear distinctive white robes and tall hats, representing the tombstone of the ego. The Mawlawiyya tradition is celebrated for its rich cultural contributions, including literature, music, and art, and continues to be practiced in various parts of the world today.