The meaning field and rituals that are created around the concept of "dâr" as a micro centre in alevi belief system

Abstract

In the context of Alawi belief system, dar (literally house) is a term used to meet the middle place of the square where the ritual is performed physically within the distinctive ritual concept area of cem worship. In Alawi belief, there is a large vocabulary and ritual order formed around the concept of dar. In addition to being a ritualistic expression, dar is a multi-layered term that has a philosophical and sociological counterpart. The concept of dar, which symbolizes sufistic path to reveal the self, indicates a square which is equipped with Sufistic answers and has an equivalent to being apparent. Various cultural and religious figures that are meaningful within the framework of Alawi belief circle are also practiced through the phenomenon of dar, so that collective memory is kept alive and the tradition is transferred. Considering the meaning burden of the concept, it is clear that it is necessary to make the meanings legible as well as being evaluated as a ritual term. In this study, after focusing on what is the concept of dar and its semantic content, it will be given information about the vocabulary developing around the concept and the ritual universe. The results to be put forward in line with the data obtained through literature review and field research methods prove that the concept of dar is shaped around Alawi belief system and that it is a portable centre that enables an ordinary place to be transformed into a place of worship. © 2021 Ankara Haci Bayram Veli University. All rights reserved.