Sufi whirling with a crescent moon

Sufi whirling, also known as Sufi turning or sema, is a form of physically active meditation practiced by Sufi Dervishes of the Mevlevi order and other Sufi groups. It involves spinning the body in repetitive circles as a symbolic imitation of planets orbiting the sun. The practice aims to achieve a greater connection with Allah by abandoning one’s ego and focusing on God through music and movement.