Mevlevi Turning

Rumi and the cosmic dance

Whirling 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. It has been taught and practised at The Study Society’s home at Colet House 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.

As well as having a deep transforming effect on the turners, the whole ceremony has a profound inner symbolism, which represents mankind’s inner journey back to the realisation of his essential oneness with God and the unity of all creation. 

You are invited to join a public Mukabele and Rumi poetry gathering on the 1st Friday of each month. The ceremony is open to people of all beliefs and backgrounds.

Turning Training

‘Slow turning’ is a simple turning technique that can be learnt in a few minutes and leads to the experience of stillness. Members of the public are most welcome to join our open practise and learn how to ‘slow turn’. Open practises are typically held every Tuesday from mid-February until end of July.

If you are interested undertaking the full whirling dervish training please contact the office.

The turning training is run typically once a year. Its purpose is to prepare people to turn in the Mukabele at the Study Society. The classes are held weekly on a Tuesday evening and alternate Friday evenings and some weekends. It is open to all participants of reasonable fitness.