Start a unique mystical journey as we unearth the enchanting tapestry of the Sama dance, a celestial celebration transcending time and cultural boundaries. Rooted in the rich traditions of Sufism, the Sama dance, also known as “whirling dervishes,” beckons us into a world where rhythmic movements become a language, speaking of divine connection and spiritual ecstasy.
Picture this: a dimly lit courtyard, the air filled with the haunting melodies of ancient instruments and mystics dressed in long white robes swirling gracefully in a cosmic dance. The Sama dance, more than just a performance, is a conduit to a heightened spiritual state, an expression of love, and a pursuit of the divine.
The captivating mysticism associated with the revered Persian poet Rumi is at its heart. The Sama dance unfolds as a mesmerizing ode to Rumi’s poetic legacy, drawing parallels between rhythmic movements and the profound verses that have echoed through centuries. As we delve into the intricate layers of this sacred dance, the reader is invited to witness a performance and a transformative experience that transcends the physical realm.
But the Sama dance is not just about the ethereal whirling; it’s a symphony of sounds – the resonant drum beats, the haunting tunes of the reed flute, and the soft rustle of the dervishes’ robes. Each element weaves together to create a sensory masterpiece, inviting the audience to lose themselves in a trance, mirroring the spiritual journey of the performers.
As we journey through the origins, meanings, and unique movements of the Sama dance, be prepared to uncover the hidden layers of this sacred art form. From the symbolic rituals to the potential risks associated with its profound states, the Sama dance reveals itself as a pathway to spiritual enlightenment.
So, please stay with us as we discover the realms of Sufi mysticism, exploring the Sama dance in all its glory. The tale of swirling dervishes is about to unfold, inviting you to join us on this mesmerizing expedition into the heart of divine connection and celestial celebration.
Facts
- Sama dance is a multifaceted ceremonial celebration with diverse purposes, rejuvenating mystics and spectators towards the divine realm.
- Rumi, the poet of Turks and Romans, is intricately tied to Sama, leaving a lasting mark through works like Masnavi and Divan-e Shams Tabrizi.
- The transformative state of selflessness, “Vajd,” is central to Sama, unfolding rhythmic movements unique to Sufi tradition.
- Instruments like drums and reed flutes accompany the dance, providing a mesmerizing auditory experience.
- Konya hosts Sama dances year-round, with festivals offering insights into Sufism’s spiritual exercises and ascetic traditions.
- Sama is a lengthy journey, spanning years and demanding dedication to spiritual exercises and intellectual pursuits.
- Despite its depth, profound states reached during Sama carry risks, with documented deaths during trance states, notably in Konya.
- Symbolic 30-minute performances transition to authentic Sama experiences lasting weeks, sometimes ending tragically in loss of life.
- Deaths are attributed to factors like physical weakness, prolonged dance durations, and intense spiritual states.
- Tales in Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh depict characters experiencing Sama, emphasizing its profound impact and associated risks.
What Is Sama Dance?
The Sama dance, a sacred ritual in Sufi schools, is significant in Islamic mysticism. Annually, during December, Konya becomes the stage for a 7 to 10-day Sama celebration, a mesmerizing spectacle of spiritual devotion. This dance, synonymous with whirling among Dervishes, is an homage to the revered Persian poet Rumi.
Beyond being a dance, Sama signifies an ecstatic state of spiritual transcendence and a profound connection with the divine. It’s a journey where mystics lose themselves in the divine presence. The term linguistically refers to melodious sounds and mystical tunes, encapsulating the essence of the Sama dance. In the Seb-i Arus ceremony, likened to a wedding night celebration, the word Sama finds its inspiration for the contemporary celebration in Konya.
In the Sama dance, Dervishes, adorned in long, white robes and tall, dark hats, symbolize Rumi and his spiritual philosophy. Their attire carries deep symbolism – the white robes representing shrouds and mortality and the tall, dark hats signifying tombstones. Through these symbolic garments, spectators are reminded of God and the transient nature of life.
The Sama dance is a unique experience, an otherworldly journey that demands a profound connection with spirituality. The whirling motion induces a feeling of dizziness and a temporary detachment of the soul from the body, creating an atmosphere where mystics draw nearer to God, attaining a divine state.
The roots of the Sama celebration lie in the mystical teachings of Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi. Dervishes view the synchronized whirling as a pathway to the transcendent state experienced by Rumi. Accompanied by the haunting melody of the flute and the rhythmic drumming, the Sama dance becomes a conduit for conveying mystical states to the audience.
In the narrative of Shams and Rumi, Sama becomes a transformative experience, shifting from traditional teachings to the expressive realms of poetry, song, drumming, and dance. The Sama dance is not just a physical performance; it’s a spiritual journey, a modern Islamic dance rooted in the profound states induced by the whirling mystics.
Meaning of Sama
Etymologically, “Sama” translates to “listening,” taking on a colloquial connotation of melodious or enchanting singing. Within the sphere of Sufism, Sama takes on a specific meaning, denoting the rendition of mystical songs or chants by a qawwal or a group of qawwals to induce ecstasy or spiritual intoxication in the audience. However, there remains to be a divergence of opinions regarding whether Sama strictly involves singing or incorporates elements of dance.
In the realm of Sufism, Sama constitutes a series of rituals and traditions performed by dervishes and Sufis. Participants immerse themselves in the performance of mystical poetry, frequently drawn from the works of esteemed poets like Rumi, set to musical accompaniment. Some interpretations of Sama extend to include a circular dance element.
At its core, Sama endeavors to cultivate an elevated spiritual state, providing a conduit for participants to establish a profound and unmatched connection with the divine. The amalgamation of music, poetry, and movement catalyzes a deeper exploration of spirituality, fostering an intimate communion with God. The rituals associated with Sama often intertwine with the concept of “Vajd,” symbolizing the journey towards selflessness and union with the divine.
While the primary emphasis rests on the auditory experience of mystical songs, Sama has been intricately linked with specific physical expressions, notably the “whirling dervishes.” The entirety of the Sama practice seeks to elevate participants to a transcendent state, guiding them through a transformative spiritual journey.
History of Sama Dance
The historical roots of the Sama dance delve deep into ancient myths, finding mention in revered scriptures like the Torah and the Bible. It appears in the dance of Prophet David and is associated with the Virgin Mary in biblical narratives. Exploring the history of the Sama dance reveals its prevalence across diverse cultures and religions, with its origins firmly rooted in Sufi traditions.
This celebration stands as a testament to the religious ceremonies of Sufis, evolving over several millennia and possibly dating back to the era of Prophet David.
In the Iranian context, references to the Sama dance are found in the Shahnameh, linking its existence to the reign of Khosrow Kianian, a notable figure in the Kianian dynasty. While some attribute the Sama ceremony to Islam, evidence suggests its presence in Iran since the Aryan era, serving as a form of worship for the one God.
Historical records point to Dhul-Nun, an Egyptian Sufi, as the first individual to engage in Sama during the third century. The absence of Sama in Islam before this period has led historians to explore its roots in pre-Islamic rituals. Notably, as documented in historical narratives, the inaugural collective Sama session was orchestrated by Ali Tannukhi in the year 253 Hijri in Baghdad.
Initially centered around reciting poetry, Sama gatherings evolved as Dervishes drew inspiration from mystical verses, incorporating dance and foot-stamping. Various musical instruments, prominently drums and flutes, were introduced into Sama sessions over time to enhance the fervor. The multifaceted history of Sama spans cultures, religions, and centuries, reflecting its dynamic evolution and enduring significance in the spiritual practices of various communities.
Rumi and Sama Dance
Undoubtedly, a concise introduction needs to include the sheer greatness of Maulana (Rumi), but let’s delve into a glimpse to enhance our understanding of the grand commemorative ceremony associated with this revered poet.
Maulana, also known as Rumi, born Jalāl al-Dīn Muḥammad Balkhī in the year 604 Hijri (1207 CE) in Balkh (present-day Afghanistan), emerges as a towering figure in Iranian history. Born into a religious family, he relocated to Konya (present-day Turkey) with his father, establishing his residence there.
Due to illness, Maulana’s earthly journey concluded in 672 Hijri (1273 CE), leaving behind a legacy that magnetizes art enthusiasts globally. Today, his resting place in Konya stands as a pilgrimage site attracting visitors from around the world.
Rumi’s poetic prowess transcends cultural boundaries, resonating with people’s hearts worldwide. Iranians, in particular, harbor a profound affection for his literary creations. Comprising around 70,000 verses in Persian, each poem demands hours of reflection, immersing the reader in profound storytelling and thematic opulence.
His poetry, characterized by its universality, finds resonance across diverse audiences, and he was proficient in several languages, including Arabic, Greek, and Turkish. About a thousand Arabic verses and 45 verses in Greek and Turkish attributed to Rumi have endured. Approximately 10% of his poetic marvels draw inspiration from the Quran.
Rumi’s literary repertoire spans prosaic and poetic expressions, each containing concealed realms of significance. Beyond his literary contributions, his philosophical and theistic perspectives have bolstered his acclaim. Rumi isn’t merely celebrated for his distinctive poetry; he is acknowledged as a mystic, ascetic, and philosopher. The Sama ceremony primarily delves into the mystical dimensions of Rumi’s philosophical legacy.
Sama Ceremony in Konya
Amidst the annual tribute to Rumi held over ten nights every December in Konya, devotees and advocates converge to orchestrate a celebration that resonates with the spirit of this revered Persian poet. Diverse groups of Dervishes make their way to Konya during this period, each conducting Sama dance ceremonies in different locales.
The ritual unfolds by lighting candles at night, creating an enchanting ambiance. Dervishes, clad in long white robes, enter the courtyard, extending their hands in deference towards the assembled audience.
The Sama ceremony kicks off with the melodic strains of instruments such as tambourines, baglamas, drums, and flutes, harmonizing with singers reciting verses from the poetry of Shams. Dervishes initiate the whirling, their hands reaching towards the celestial expanse, gracefully engaging in circular motions. This mesmerizing performance unfolds through a symphony of music, song, dance, and expressions of reverence, leaving an indelible imprint of spiritual ecstasy and mysticism on both spectators and participating Dervishes.
Key landmarks for delving into the world of Rumi in Konya include the Rumi Cultural Center and Rumi’s mausoleum. Throughout the year, the cultural center orchestrates various ceremonies, with the pinnacle being the Sama celebration held in December, coinciding with Rumi’s birth month. This cultural extravaganza, once constrained due to political restrictions, has burgeoned into a tourism magnet over the decades. At Rumi’s mausoleum, visitors are afforded a glimpse of some of his personal effects and meticulously preserved books, offering a tangible connection to the legacy of this profound poet and mystic.
How Does Sama Dance Start?
The commencement of the Sama ceremony unfolds in a symphony of synchronized chanting as mystics and seekers intone verses and hymns, laying the foundation for the captivating ritual. Subsequently, the rhythmic beats of drums and the dance begin, marking the initiation of a sacred performance. A procession of mystics, donned in flowing long white robes and distinctive black capes, enters the gathering in a solemn line. At the forefront stands a leading mystic, encircled by the others, creating a sacred geometry on the dance floor.
In a choreographed sequence, the mystics cast their black capes in unison, each one gracefully entering the dance floor one after another. Whirling and spinning, the dervishes engage in a mesmerizing dance, rotating around themselves and their central leader. This cosmic motion mirrors the celestial bodies orbiting the sun, with the leader positioned at the dance’s epicenter.
An intriguing aspect of the ceremony is the mystics’ remarkable skill demonstrated by closing their eyes throughout the dance, executing flawless movements with precision. The dance evolves gradually, with mystics extending one hand skyward and the other toward the earth, subtly tilting their necks as they continue their graceful rotation. This symbolic gesture recognizes that humans are passive in the cosmic order, merely receiving and transmitting divine blessings from the heavens to the earthly realm.
As the spinning persists, the dervishes’ gestures become more expansive, their bodies turning increasingly towards God. Despite the deepening bends in their necks, they maintain balance and unwavering composure, expressing a profound connection with the divine.
Typically lasting around 30 minutes, the dance culminates in a graceful halt, a testament to the dervishes’ endurance and mastery over this challenging feat. To truly fathom the beauty and spiritual essence of the Sama dance, one must witness this sacred spectacle in person.
How Does Sama Dance End?
As the Sama dance ceremony approaches its conclusion, a pivotal moment unfolds when all the participating dervishes simultaneously open their eyes. This synchronized act symbolizes the culmination of heightened spiritual ecstasy and signifies the completion of the profound Sama experience.
Throughout the intricate dance, the focal point remains on the main guide or the two leading mystics, who hold leadership roles amongst the dervishes. These leaders, distinguishable by their distinctive darker and black attire worn during the dance, assume a symbolic role representing worldly possessions and attachments.
As the ceremony nears its end, a transformative phase transpires. The primary guides or leading mystics continue their whirling, now in solitary motion, maintaining a slower rhythm and melodic pace. This solo performance by the leaders carries a symbolic resonance, underlining their unique position in guiding the collective spiritual journey until the ceremony’s final moments. Their continued whirling serves as a reflective cadence, inviting introspection and a serene conclusion to the rhythmic dance.
A poignant aspect of the concluding ritual involves the leading mystics shedding their darker attires. Removing these black garments is a powerful metaphor for relinquishing worldly possessions and attachments, a fundamental step toward embracing a life of spiritual asceticism. This symbolic gesture encapsulates the essence of detachment from material concerns and signifies a profound commitment to spiritual enlightenment.
In this climactic moment, the ceremony gracefully concludes, leaving a lingering spiritual resonance in its wake. The Sama dance, with its intricate movements and symbolic transitions, not only offers a mesmerizing visual spectacle but also imparts profound spiritual teachings, inviting participants and spectators alike to contemplate the transcendence from worldly attachments to a realm of spiritual enlightenment.
Sama Dance in Modern Era
In contemporary times, the commencement of the Sama ceremony intertwines tradition with spiritual devotion. The ceremony initiates with the recitation of Quranic verses and the melodious praises of Prophet Muhammad, known as Naat. As the sacred verses of the Quran echo through the gathering, the new player takes center stage, captivating the audience with a solo performance. Gradually, other musicians joined, introducing diverse instruments that weaved a rich musical tapestry.
Colloquially called “Salam,” the Sama dance unfolds with a symbolic ritual. A participating dervish, seeking permission, initiates the ceremony by tenderly kissing the hands of the spiritual guide. This gesture begins a mesmerizing dance transcending the physical realm, delving into the spiritual essence. The sheik, or spiritual leader, assumes a central position and a circular arrangement forms as dervishes encircle him, poised to embark on the rhythmic journey.
The synchronized rotation around the sheikh becomes a spiritual metaphor reminiscent of celestial bodies revolving around the sun. Each dervish, akin to a star, orbits both around itself and the sheik. This symbolic dance serves as a profound expression of love in Sufism, emphasizing that every form of love ultimately converges into divine love. As the dervishes whirl in unison, the chanting of the name of Allah resonates through the sacred space, creating an ethereal atmosphere that transcends the mundane.
A final greeting, prayers, and supplications mark the culmination of the Sama ceremony. In this concluding phase, the spiritual journey through the intricate dance finds its spiritual zenith. The Sama dance in contemporary settings thus preserves its historical significance while embracing a vibrant, living tradition that continues to inspire spiritual seekers and enchant audiences with its profound symbolism and divine resonance.
The Meaning of Sama Dance Movements
In delving deeper into the intricacies of the Sama dance, we unravel the nuanced movements that add profound layers of meaning to the ceremony. While, at first glance, the dance may appear as a mere whirl of individuals, a closer inspection reveals a tapestry of subtle gestures, each laden with spiritual significance.
The first movement involves the dervishes spinning around themselves. This act is not a mere physical motion but a symbolic representation of the omnipresence of the Divine, emphasizing that the sacred encompasses all directions and aspects of life. It is a profound expression of the mystic and divine interconnectedness.
The second movement introduces a compelling element—stomping the foot on the ground. This deliberate gesture symbolizes the rejection and trampling of egoistic desires. It is a visual metaphor for the spiritual journey, where the mystic actively distances themselves from worldly attachments and the self-centered ego.
As the dance unfolds, another movement emerges—jumping. This dynamic action signifies the joy, ecstasy, and profound happiness experienced by the mystic upon reaching the spiritual realm. It reflects a celebratory expression of the spiritual elevation achieved through the rhythmic dance.
The final movement, opening the hands, is a poignant moment in the Sama dance. It articulates the mystic’s fervent desire to reach the Beloved, accompanied by an impatient anticipation of the imminent union with the Divine. The outstretched hands become a visual metaphor for the soul’s yearning for communion.
Collectively, these movements embody the essence of self-annihilation, emphasizing the insignificance of human attributes in the spiritual journey. The silent greetings exchanged among the mystics during the ceremony, performed four times with closed eyes, transcend verbal expression. Instead, they embody a form of communication deeply rooted in Sufi and mystical beliefs, emphasizing a shared spiritual language that unites the participants in a profound and transcendent experience.
Different Sections of Sama Dance
The Sama dance unfolds like a sacred narrative, weaving together seven distinct sections, each laden with profound symbolic meanings that guide the dervishes on their spiritual journey:
1. Throwing Black Cloaks
This initial section is a powerful act of symbolism, representing the dervishes’ detachment from worldly attachments. As the dancers throw their black cloaks, their necks tilt toward the heart, with one hand reaching towards the sky and the other hand towards the ground. It embodies a transformative moment of embracing divine blessings while relinquishing earthly ties.
2. Commencing Dance with Melancholic Melodies
The dance unfolds with the haunting strains of melancholic melodies, signifying the dervishes’ journey towards godliness. In this section, they manifest a divine appearance, symbolizing the ethereal transformation of their beings.
3. Playing the Ney (flute)
The playing of the Ney, or flute, is a pivotal section, symbolizing the first divine breath breathed into humanity. As God breathed His spirit into humans, the Ney echoes the sacredness of that initial breath, marking the divine essence within each soul.
4. Dervishes’ Greetings
Symbolic greetings are exchanged among the dervishes, a profound act representing the sending of their souls to one another. Accompanied by the melodious “Peşrev,” this section enhances the sense of spiritual connection among the participants.
5. Another Greeting
As the dervishes spin towards each other, they exchange another set of greetings. These gestures bear witness to God’s unity, signifying man’s rebirth and his inherent truth. The greetings emphasize God as the Creator and humans as His creations, paving the way for spiritual transformation.
6. Conclusion of Sama
The reading from the Quran marks the conclusion, underlining the universal belonging of God to all people worldwide, transcending geographical boundaries. This section reinforces the idea that the divine connection is accessible to all, whether in the East or the West.
7. Prayer and Supplication
The Sama dance concludes with heartfelt prayers and supplications, an offering for the peace of the souls of the prophets and believers. This final section embodies a collective spiritual culmination, echoing the harmonious connection between the earthly and the divine realms.
Sama Dance- Mystical Whirls and the Soul’s Journey
A profound journey unfolds in the enchanting realm of Sama dance, where whirling mystics create cosmic symphonies and timeless rituals. Explore the mystique, the symbolism, and the divine connection that make Sama an ancient Sufi tradition unlike any other.
As we navigate the multifaceted layers of Sama, a celebration intertwining music, poetry, and dance, the essence of Rumi becomes palpable. Feel the transformative power of “Vajd,” the state of selflessness and divine merging, as it reverberates through the rhythmic beats of instruments like the drum and the reed flute. Witness the intricate dance unfold in Konya, where Sama graces the stages throughout the year.
Yet, the Sama experience has its risks and rewards. Journey with us through stories of spiritual ecstasy and the documented instances where the dance transcends symbolism, extending into weeks and, sometimes, tragically leading to the loss of life. In the tapestry of Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh, tales of characters like Ki Khosrow and Khosrow Kiani add a layer of richness, echoing the profound impact of Sama’s mystical journey.
Now, dear reader, if the enchantment of Sama dance has stirred questions within you, and if the mysteries of this spiritual odyssey beckon you to delve deeper, we invite you to reach out. Contact us, share your thoughts, and let the rhythms of your curiosity sync with the melodies of our knowledge. With its celestial echoes and earthly vibrations, the Sama dance awaits your inquiries. Together, let’s unravel the layers, explore the depths, and dance through the corridors of the mystical Sufi tradition. Contact us, and let the conversation begin.
FAQs
Q: What is the Sama dance?
A: Sama dance is a Sufi ritual involving whirling motions, music, and poetry, aiming to induce a state of spiritual ecstasy.
Q: Who is Rumi, and what is his connection to Sama?
A: Rumi, also known as Maulana, is a renowned Persian poet associated with Sama. His works, such as the Masnavi and Divan-e Shams Tabrizi, are often featured in Sama celebrations.
Q: What is “Vajd” in the context of Sama?
A: “Vajd” refers to the transformative state of becoming selfless or merging with the divine, a central aspect of the Sama experience.
Q: Which instruments are used in Sama dance?
A: The primary instruments include the drum (daf) and reed flute (ney), complemented by others like the tambourine, kamancha, and tanbur.
Q: Where can Sama dances be witnessed throughout the year?
A: Sama dances can be experienced in Konya, Turkey, where the festival provides insights into Sufi practices.