I would like to start by affirming the existence of the authentic Mevlevi Order (or Tariqah) with worldwide activities, and I would like to present some thoughts based on my personal experience as one of the appointed teachers (Shaykh) within the Mevlevi Order.

Known as a powerful and much respected organisation during the Ottoman Empire, the Mevlevi Tariqah’s profile changed with the confinement of all Tekkes and Zawiyahs by law in 1925 during the establishment of modern Turkey and the loss of all assets as a consequence. Today the true kernel of the Mevlevi Tariqah as a religious path is relatively small and spread all over the world. In Turkey its expression is mainly seen in well-esteemed cultural activities such as classical music, Sema, fine arts and philosophical circles, whereas in Europe and North America it serves directly and openly a religious or spiritual purpose. In my speech I’d like to concentrate on the religious value of Hz. Mevlana’s works and messages, as seen from a western and particularly European point of view and in a European context.