Hello World…. hello Universe,
In an increasingly fragmented world, finding a space where you can truly be yourself—free from societal roles, egotistical constraints, and worldly expectations—has become a rare treasure. Our community is built around the concept of creating such a protected and creative haven. Here, every individual is encouraged to explore and express their innermost self, diving deep into the essence of their soul and embracing the profound interconnectedness of all existence.
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In this space, we explore concepts that transcend the material world. We delve into the nature of consciousness, the interplay of light and shadow within ourselves, and the infinite possibilities that arise from our interconnectedness. We engage in practices that facilitate these explorations, such as guided visualizations, contemplative reading of mystical texts, and communal discussions that challenge and expand our understanding.
**Oneness: The Ultimate Realization**
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Refuge from the fragmented, ego-driven world
Our community offers a refuge from the fragmented, ego-driven world, providing a protected and creative space where individuals can explore the depths of their souls and experience the oneness of all existence. By transcending societal roles and egotistical constraints, we create an environment where authentic expression and spiritual growth are nurtured. In this sacred space, we embark on a profound journey into the infinite, discovering the everything and the nothing that unites us all. Through this journey, we realize that we are not separate entities but interconnected beings, bound by the same universal consciousness. This realization of oneness is the ultimate gift our community offers—a gift that transforms lives and fosters a deeper understanding of our place in the cosmos.
The Psydonym of the founder is Mahamaya and she is a contemporary whirling dancer (with influences of Indian Dance & Fusion Bellydance).
Contemporary whirling dance, particularly associated with Sufism and the Whirling Dervishes, has its roots in the teachings and practices of the 13th-century Sufi mystic and poet Rumi. He founded the Mevlevi Order, also known as the Order of the Whirling Dervishes, which became known for their unique form of spiritual practice involving whirling or spinning.
My perception of this contemporary whirling dance style is to disconnect and detach cultural and religious aspects of the Mevlevi Order – especially because women are not allowed to practice Dervish Dances in the Mevlevi Order. Doors are only open for men.
For me, contemporary whirling dance to epic music (or to all other kinds of music) leads to a transcendental state – which should be open for everyone, regardless of gender.
For those who are interested in the background of the Mevlevi Order and Rumi’s influence whirling dance can be traced to several key elements:
- Mevlevi Order and Rumi’s Influence:
Rumi, along with his followers, used music, poetry, and dance as a means of expressing and experiencing their deep connection with the divine. The whirling dance was formalized within the Mevlevi Order as a ritualistic practice meant to induce a state of spiritual ecstasy and connection with God. - Symbolism of the Whirling Dance:
The whirling dance is not merely a physical activity; it is laden with symbolism. The dancer’s movements represent a journey of spiritual ascent, a release from the material world, and a turning toward the divine. The act of spinning is seen as a way to let go of the ego and worldly concerns. - Sufi Mystical Concepts:
The whirling dance is rooted in Sufi mystical concepts, such as the idea of annihilating the self (Fana) and subsisting in God (Baqa). The dance is a form of meditation and prayer, helping practitioners experience a sense of oneness with the divine. - Music and Rituals:
The whirling dance is often accompanied by traditional Sufi music and chanting. The combination of music, poetry, and movement creates a holistic spiritual experience for the participants and (!) observers. The rituals associated with the dance are carefully structured within the context of Sufi practices.
While the roots are firmly embedded in Sufi traditions, contemporary whirling dance has also transcended its religious origins and has been embraced by people around the world as a form of artistic expression and a means of connecting with the spiritual aspects of life. In various cultural and artistic contexts, the whirling dance continues to be practiced and appreciated for its beauty, symbolism, and spiritual transcendental significance.
Mahamaya, can you tell us about yourself? E.g. why you are called Mahamaya?
.. why am I called Mahamaya?
Me teacher and influencer in dance gave me this name as she saw my raw being and put me into the role of Mahamaya in a dance project.
Mahamaya is a term that is often used in Hindu philosophy, particularly in the context of Advaita Vedanta, which is a non-dualistic school of Hindu philosophy. “Maha” means great, and “maya” refers to the illusory nature of the material world. Therefore, “Mahamaya” can be translated as the “Great Illusion” or the “Supreme Illusion.”
In Advaita Vedanta, Mahamaya is considered the divine power or cosmic illusion that veils the true nature of reality. It is the force that creates the illusion of duality, making individuals perceive themselves as separate from the ultimate reality (Brahman). The goal of spiritual practice in Advaita Vedanta is to transcend Mahamaya and realize the non-dual nature of existence.
The connection to Sufi dervish dance is that both traditions share a common theme of seeking a direct experience of the divine and transcending the limitations of the material world.
Sufi dervish dance, specifically the Whirling Dervishes, is aiming to achieve a state of spiritual closeness to the universe or to God. In the process of whirling, the dancers or dervishes aim to let go of their ego, attain a state of spiritual ecstasy, and experience a sense of oneness with the divine.
While the terminology may differ, the underlying themes of transcending illusion, realizing non-duality, and seeking direct spiritual experience are shared to some extent between Advaita Vedanta and Sufi mysticism. Both traditions emphasize the importance of moving beyond the apparent multiplicity of the world to realize a deeper, unifying reality.