The Sufi dance or the dance of being

Sufi dance, also known as the dance of whirling dervishes, is often called the “ dance of being” because of its deep spiritual and mystical dimension. It has its origins in the Sufi tradition, which is a branch of Islamic spirituality. Sufis are followers who seek to attain mystical union with God through meditative, musical and bodily practices.

Sufi dance is a sacred ritual that symbolically embodies the soul’s mystical journey to God. Whirling dervishes, who are Sufi dancers, perform a slow and continuous rotation on themselves, often dressed in long, loose robes. This rotation represents the cosmic movement, but also the inner whirlwind of the human being in search of spiritual truth.

Sufi dance is accompanied by music, usually composed of repetitive songs and melodies, which create an atmosphere conducive to meditation and spiritual elevation. The dancers focus on their breathing and the repetition of sacred phrases, while getting carried away by the rotational movement. This creates harmony between body, mind and soul, allowing dancers to transcend their individuality and merge into divine unity.

The term “dance of being” thus emphasizes the fact that Sufi dance is more than just an artistic performance. It is seen as a path of inner transformation, a method of attaining a higher consciousness and communion with the divine. By moving with grace and devotion, whirling dervishes seek to transcend the limits of the ego and find mystical union with the ultimate essence of existence.

Sufi dance is often called the “dance of being” because of its deep spiritual dimension and purpose of connecting with the very essence of existence. This name emphasizes that Sufi dance is not limited to a simple artistic performance, but is a sacred practice and a path of inner transformation.

In the Sufi tradition, dance is seen as a way to transcend the limitations of the ego and get closer to ultimate reality. Whirling dervishes, who are Sufi dancers, perform a slow and continuous rotation on themselves, often dressed in long, loose robes. This rotation symbolizes the cosmic movement and inner swirling of the human being in search of spiritual truth.

The term “being” in “dance of being” refers to the fundamental nature of existence and the search for a mystical union with the divine essence. Sufi dance is seen as a way to transcend individuality and blend into the unity of supreme reality. It aims to reach a state of union with God, where the dancer can feel a dissolution of his individuality and a fusion with the divine presence.

Sufi dance is also often accompanied by music and spiritual songs, which create an atmosphere conducive to meditation and contemplation. The dancers focus on their breathing and repeat sacred phrases while getting carried away by the rotational movement. This combination of music, movement and devotion creates a holistic experience that integrates body, mind and soul.

Thus, Sufi dance is called the “dance of being” to emphasize its spiritual dimension and purpose of connecting with the fundamental essence of existence. It is seen as a means of exploring the nature of being, transcending the limits of the ego and seeking mystical union with the divine.