Twist with a twist

The Whirling Dervishes of Konya have wandered far afield from the Turkish birthplace of their sect to perform in those parts of the world where Sufism has had the most impact -- including Iran and parts of the Middle East.

The Sufi sect to which the dervishes belong was founded in the 13th century by their master Mevlevi, after whom they are known in Arabic as Mawlawiyya. They believe that their continual whirling induces a deep, trance-like sense of spirituality which brings the dancer closer to God. Their feat requires dedicated training and a deep- held belief; for the audience, watching these masters of physical and mental control is a breathtaking experience and one of great beauty.

Each of the gestures has a meaning. The upraised arm is reaching to heaven, while the arm pointing downwards symbolises that what is received from above flows straight through the dancer to earth. The twirling gowns and spheres represent the heavenly bodies.

In Egypt the Whirling Dervishes hold touristic whirling ceremonies -- Raqsa Al-Tanoura (Dance of the Long Skirts) -- at the Citadel of Salaheddin on Saturdays, Mondays and Wednesdays at 7.30pm, although it is advisable to be there half an hour to an hour ahead of time to ensure a place. Summer performances begin at 8pm. The ceremonies, which last about 45 minutes, are subsidised by the Ministry of Culture and there is no entrance charge.

Tel: 512 1735

Al-Ahram Weekly Online : 20 - 26 February 2003 (Issue No. 626)
Located at: http://weekly.ahram.org.eg/2003/626/tr3.htm