The Universal Language of Art: Mevlevi Music and the Power of Tolerance with Sufi Meshk Ensemble
Throughout history, during times of chaos and war, people have sought hope in art, philosophy, and spiritual teachings. The 13th century in Anatolia was one such period. The Seljuk Empire was in decline, Mongol invasions were destroying cities, and law and order had been replaced by fear and uncertainty. Yet, in the midst of this turmoil, a philosophy emerged that embraced differences and was rooted in love: Mevlevi tradition.
As Sufi Meshk Ensemble, we see it as our duty to keep this rich musical heritage alive and share it with people. At our event in Sierre, which aims to promote solidarity against racism, we will not only perform Mevlevi music but also convey a profound message: Art is the most powerful tool for transcending differences and bringing people together.
From History to the Present: The Birth of Mevlevi Tradition and Tolerance
The 13th century was marked by significant political and social upheavals in Anatolia. As Mongol invasions devastated cities, people suffered from the destructive effects of war. In the midst of this turmoil, the teachings of Mevlânâ Jalaluddin Rumi became a beacon of hope. Rumi did not categorize people based on ethnicity, religion, or language. On the contrary, he emphasized that everyone could unite through love and humanity.
“We have come to unite, not to divide.”
(Mevlânâ, Masnavi)
These words of Mevlânâ still carry a timeless and universal message. The Mevlevi tradition has become a symbol of a philosophy that rejects all forms of discrimination and embraces love and unity.
Mevlevi Music: A Journey from Heart to Heart
One of the most essential elements of the Mevlevi tradition is music. Integral to the Sema ceremony, Mevlevi music is performed with instruments such as the ney, kudüm, and tanbur. As Sufi Meshk Ensemble, we remain faithful to the traditional forms of this music, bringing it to the stage in its purest essence.
At this special event, there will be no sema performance, but as two musicians, we will present the essence and spirit of Mevlevi music to the audience. Our musical repertoire consists of compositions that reflect the teachings of Mevlânâ through melodies.
"The sound of the ney is the search for the lost peace within oneself."
(Mevlânâ, Masnavi)
This quote from Mevlânâ illustrates the profound effect of Mevlevi music on the human soul. The transformative power of the ney takes listeners on an inner journey, softening hearts and creating a deep sense of connection.
Art Against Racism: The Message of Sufi Meshk Ensemble
This event in Sierre is part of a solidarity movement against racism. In a world where discrimination still exists, the unifying power of art is needed more than ever.
Through our music, we aim to build bridges. When people from different cultures gather in a concert hall and listen to the same melodies, they find a common emotional ground. This is one of the most powerful examples of how art can break prejudices and foster unity.
"Those who are united in feelings will also understand each other's words."
(Mevlânâ, Masnavi)
These words from Mevlânâ emphasize that shared human values transcend language barriers and bring people together. Through our music, we hope to strengthen this sense of unity.
Our Message to the Audience: Unity and Tolerance
This performance is not just a musical event; it is also a call to action: Living with love, tolerance, and unity is possible. The message carried by the Mevlevi tradition for centuries remains relevant today.
As Sufi Meshk Ensemble, through our music, we convey the following message:
- Tolerance is the key to breaking prejudices and living together in harmony.
- Unity proves that people from different backgrounds and cultures can coexist through shared values.
- Art is the most powerful tool to connect people through emotions.
Music is a language that speaks directly to the human soul. Here in Sierre, we are using this language to stand against racism and discrimination. Because we are all human, and love is what unites us.
Event Details
1st Part: Ilahi Hymns with Ney and Bendir
In this first part, centered around love and tolerance, we will perform hymns in the purest forms of Classical Turkish Music, inviting the audience on an inner journey. Accompanied by the soothing sound of the ney and the rhythmic vibrations of the bendir, the melodies will fill the space, offering peace to the soul.
These hymns are part of the Mevlevi musical tradition, which connects people with love and divine wisdom. Just as Mevlânâ taught, music serves as a bridge that eliminates divisions. Every note in this performance is an invitation to transcend differences and unite in shared emotions.
"O heart! You were created to love people, not to be divided from them!"
(Mevlânâ, Divân-ı Kebir)
2nd Part: A Demonstration of Mevlevi Music Training
In the second part, we will present Mevlevi music training as a live demonstration on stage. The audience will witness firsthand how Mevlevi music is taught and performed, gaining insight into this unique spiritual tradition.
In the Mevlevi tradition, music is not just an art form, but also a path of spiritual training, patience, and inner transformation. Through this demonstration, we will illustrate how Mevlevi music develops through discipline, the stages it goes through, and most importantly, how it serves as a guide for the soul.
This process is like life itself; it requires patience, love, and continuous growth. It is not about rigid instruction but rather a process of guidance shaped by love.
"Love ripens the raw, burns the ripe, and finally perfects the soul."
(Mevlânâ, Masnavi)
Final Thoughts
For centuries, Mevlevi music has brought peace to people’s hearts and connected them in profound ways. At our special performance in Sierre, we will not only present music but also highlight the universal values of love, tolerance, and humanity.
We believe in the transformative power of art, and through this event, we will express our stance against racism in its purest form. We invite all listeners to open their hearts and join us on this musical journey.
References and Suggested Readings
- Mevlânâ Jalaluddin Rumi, Masnavi, Ed. Veled İzbudak.
- Mevlânâ Jalaluddin Rumi, Divân-ı Kebir.
- Prof. Dr. Süleyman Uludağ, History of Sufism and Orders.
- Irene Melikoff, Mevlânâ Celâleddin Rumi and Mevlevi Tradition.
- Annemarie Schimmel, I Am Wind: Mevlânâ and the Mevlevi Tradition.
This blog post beautifully conveys the philosophy and societal impact of Sufi Meshk Ensemble. We hope you enjoy it!
