Encyclopedia of Islam

Bektashi Sufi Order

  

99  J

---

initiated in an elaborate ceremony by a spiritual 

guide called a baba (father), who continues to 

direct their spiritual progress by instructing them 

in Bektashi beliefs through the use of poetry, 

stories, and even jokes. Bektashis meet in a cer-

emony (closed to outsiders) known as meydan,

which is followed by a ritual meal in which food 

is shared, poetry is sung to the accompaniment 

of 

mUsic

, and disciples are instructed by the baba.

The feast also includes the consumption of alco-

hol, which has symbolic significance. Because of 

their use of alcohol and their lack of compliance 

with Islamic practices such as 

prayer

 in 

mosqUe

s 

and 

Fasting

 during r

amadan

, Bektashis have 

often been condemned by orthodox authorities, 

yet they are also known for their wisdom, humor 

and tolerance.

See also a

li

 

ibn

 a

bi

 t

alib

; 

imam

; s

hiism

; s

UFism

.

Mark Soileau