>>213868732
The Bektashi Order is a Sufi order that emerged in the 13th–15th centuries, named after Haji Bektash Veli (a mystic from Khorasan who settled in Anatolia). It spread widely through the Ottoman Empire, especially among the Janissaries (elite military corps), and today survives mainly in Albania, North Macedonia, Kosovo, and parts of Turkey.
Core Features of Bektashism
Syncretic & liberal: Blends Islam (mainly Shi’ite/Sufi elements) with local, Christian, and pre-Islamic traditions.
Veneration of Ali & the Twelve Imams: Shares strong Shi’ite influence.
Esoteric interpretation: Focuses on inner meaning (batin) rather than literal Sharia law.
Equality: Bektashi rituals allow men and women together (unusual in Islamic practice).
Initiation & secrecy: Strong initiation rites; spiritual hierarchy of dervishes and babas.
Alcohol in Bektashism
Not haram: The Bektashis do not consider alcohol forbidden in the way Sunni and Shia Islam do.
Symbolic & ritual use: Wine is used in their sacred muhabbet (fellowship) ceremonies, sometimes compared to Christian Eucharist.
Cultural practice: In Bektashi gatherings, wine (or rakı in the Balkans) is often consumed, seen as a symbol of spiritual intoxication and unity.
Why this stance?
Bektashism views strict Sharia prohibitions as outer law (zahir) meant for the uninitiated.
For the initiated, the inner truth (batin) transcends such bans.
Alcohol symbolizes divine love, unity, and loss of ego — echoing Sufi mystical poetry.
Today
The Bektashi are most visible in Albania, where they became an officially recognized religious community after 1925.
In modern practice, alcohol is still a normal part of Bektashi religious and social life.
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Would you like me to also explain how the Bektashi justified alcohol spiritually, like the metaphors and theological reasoning they used, or more about their historical role in the Ottoman Empire?
8/15/2025, 9:43:22 PM
No.213850498
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>>213863864
