Bektashi vs. Mawlawi

Attribute	Bektashi	Mawlawi
Founder	Haji Bektash Veli	Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi
Location of Origin	Anatolia, Turkey	Konya, Turkey
Beliefs	Blend of Shia Islam and Sufism	Sufi order within Sunni Islam
Practices	Whirling dance, music, poetry	Whirling dance, music, poetry
Symbol	Star and crescent	Whirling dervish

History

The Bektashi Order is a Sufi order founded in the 13th century by Haji Bektash Veli, a Persian mystic. It originated in Anatolia and spread throughout the Ottoman Empire. The Bektashi Order has a strong presence in Albania, where it is considered one of the main branches of Islam. On the other hand, the Mawlawi Order, also known as the Mevlevi Order, was founded by the Persian poet and mystic Rumi in the 13th century. The Mawlawi Order is famous for its whirling dervishes and is based in Konya, Turkey.

Beliefs

The Bektashi Order emphasizes the concept of unity of being, which teaches that all existence is a manifestation of the divine. Bektashis believe in the importance of love, tolerance, and social justice. They also have a strong tradition of music and poetry as a means of spiritual expression. In contrast, the Mawlawi Order focuses on the concept of divine love and the path of spiritual transformation. Mawlawis believe in the importance of self-discipline, meditation, and remembrance of God.

Practices

Bektashis have a unique ritual called the "cem," which involves music, chanting, and dance. The cem is a communal gathering where participants seek spiritual ecstasy and union with the divine. Bektashis also have a strong tradition of hospitality and community service. On the other hand, Mawlawis are known for their whirling dance, which is a form of meditation and prayer. The whirling dervishes spin in circles to symbolize their journey towards spiritual enlightenment.

Leadership

The Bektashi Order is led by a spiritual leader known as the "Baba" or "Dede." The Baba is considered the spiritual guide of the community and is responsible for overseeing the religious practices and teachings of the order. Bektashis also have a strong tradition of egalitarianism and inclusivity, with women playing an active role in the community. In contrast, the Mawlawi Order is led by a "Sheikh" who is responsible for guiding the spiritual practices of the dervishes. The Sheikh is considered a spiritual master who has attained a high level of enlightenment.

Symbolism

The Bektashi Order uses the symbol of the "rose" to represent love, beauty, and the divine presence. The rose is a central motif in Bektashi poetry and art, symbolizing the spiritual journey towards enlightenment. Bektashis also use the symbol of the "lion" to represent courage, strength, and protection. On the other hand, the Mawlawi Order uses the symbol of the "whirling dervish" to represent the journey of the soul towards union with the divine. The whirling dance is a form of meditation and prayer that symbolizes the dervishes' surrender to God.

Impact

Both the Bektashi and Mawlawi Orders have had a significant impact on Islamic spirituality and culture. The Bektashi Order has been influential in promoting tolerance, love, and social justice within the Muslim world. Bektashis have also played a key role in the spread of Sufism in the Balkans and Anatolia. Similarly, the Mawlawi Order has had a profound influence on poetry, music, and art in the Islamic world. The poetry of Rumi, a key figure in the Mawlawi Order, is widely read and admired for its spiritual depth and beauty.