Yes, Islam does have dance, most notably the whirling dervishes.
While Islam, in general, does not promote dance as a widespread religious practice, certain Sufi orders embrace it as a form of worship and spiritual expression. The most prominent example is the Sema ceremony performed by the Mevlevi Order, also known as the whirling dervishes. This isn't merely entertainment; it's a deep spiritual practice.
The Whirling Dervishes: A Spiritual Dance
The whirling dervishes' dance, or Sema, is far more than just spinning. It's a ritualized performance symbolizing:
- The Rotation of the Universe: The continuous turning reflects the movement of planets and the universe's cyclical nature.
- Union with God: Through focused meditation and physical exertion, the dervishes aim to transcend the ego and achieve a state of unity with the divine.
- Spiritual Ascent: Each stage of the Sema represents a step closer to spiritual enlightenment.
- Love and Service: The dervish offers selfless service to all creation, symbolized by outstretched hands - one receiving divine grace, the other bestowing it upon the world.
The Dhikr and Dance
The Sema is part of a larger Muslim ceremony called the dhikr, which involves the remembrance of God through various practices like chanting, prayer, and, in the case of the Mevlevi order, dance. The purpose of the dhikr, and consequently the Sema, is to purify the heart, glorify God, and attain spiritual perfection. This makes the whirling dance a sacred and intentional act of worship.
Other Forms of Dance in Islamic Cultures
While the whirling dervishes are the most well-known example, other forms of dance exist in cultures where Islam is practiced. However, these are generally considered folk dances or cultural expressions rather than strictly religious practices. Whether these are considered permissible or not within Islam is a matter of varied interpretations and opinions among different schools of thought and individuals.
