Whirling Dervishes
Dervish turning from the Mevlevi order of dervishes is a potent method for experiencing inner stillness and the opening of the heart. It was originally taught to us in 1963 by a Mevlevi Sheikh with the permission of the head of the order and it has been taught and practised at Colet House in West London on a regular basis since then.
The turning is a part of a ceremony known as a ‘Mukabele’ (meaning ‘coming face to face’) and it was originally developed by followers of the 13th century Persian mystic Jalalu’ddin Rumi. When we were taught it, we were asked to preserve it in its original form.
The ceremony is open to people of all beliefs and backgrounds. Rumi said he was the friend of 73 religions.
As well as having a deep transforming effect on the turners, the whole ceremony has a profound inner symbolism, which represents man’s inner journey back to the realisation of his essential oneness with God and the unity of all creation.
Activities
Guest Ceremonies
Guest ceremonies are held at Colet House on the first Friday of each month (except August) and you are asked to be seated in the top studio by 7.45 pm. The guest ceremony is a chance for members of the public to watch the turning ceremony. This in itself is a moving experience and the audience are regarded as a part of the ceremony and are known as ‘Lovers’.
The guest nights always end with a party in the refectory and attendees are asked to bring a contribution of food to share. If you would like to attend please feel free just to turn up, it is not necessary to telephone us in advance and there is no charge.
Rumi Poetry Groups
There is a Rumi poetry group that meets every Friday, to which all are welcome and you are invited to bring along your own favourite Rumi or other mystical poems to share. On guest ceremony nights (1st Friday of the month) it meets at 6.30 pm; on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th Friday of the month it meets at 7.45 pm.
Turning Practices
Turning practices are held on the 2nd and 4th Friday of each month (except August). You are most welcome to attend these and to learn how to ‘slow turn’. This is a very simple turning technique that can be learnt in a few minutes and leads to the experience of stillness.
Introductory Study Group
On the same evenings as the turning practices you are welcome to attend an introductory group studying Advaita and Mevlevi and other non-dual teachings (see Advaita Study Groups for details)
Turning Trainings
Turning trainings take place annually. They usually start in January and last for five months. The classes are on Thursday evenings and alternate Friday evenings and some weekends. The training is open to all people of reasonable fitness. Its purpose is to prepare people to turn in the ceremonies at Colet House.
Music
We have an occasional music group that meets to practice Mevlevi music and Illahis (Mevlevi hymns).
We also sometimes host concerts of Sufi and Middle Eastern music and have drumming sessions.