The Philosophy of Traditional Anatolian Alevism: A Comparative Approach

Abstract

The article is devoted to exploring the philosophy of traditional Anatolian Alevism. It was given attention to the fact that various heterodox groups existed in Anatolia, often interacting with one another; however, it was only after the 16th century that the term “Alevism” began to be used to describe a distinct religious group. The study clarifies the difference between the concepts of Alevism and Alawism. Particular emphasis is placed on the definition and identification of traditional Anatolian Alevism in comparison with Bektashism, Shi’ism, and the traditions of Sunni Islam.

The aim of the study is to identify the socio-philosophical foundations of Alevism and Bektashism, as well as their influence on the formation of collective identity and social practices within Muslim societies.

Methodology. The central methodological approach is the comparative method, which enables the analysis of Alevism and Bektashism, Alevism and Alawism, and Alevism and Shiism as religious-philosophical traditions that share mystical roots but differ in forms of social organization, ritual practice, and philosophical emphasis. The comparison was conducted based on the following criteria: ontological and ethical foundations; the structure of the religious community; the role of leadership and hierarchy; participation in social life; and views on freedom, equality, and justice.

A socio-philosophical analysis was also conducted, applying methods of interpreting religion from a social-philosophical perspective. This includes examining the interaction between the individual and the community within a religious tradition; identifying the role of religious beliefs in shaping value orientations and social practices; and interpreting the phenomena of spiritual authority, ritual, faith, and tradition in the categories of social ethics, dialogue, and solidarity.

Additionally, attention was given to the values of representatives of various heterodox groups (such as the idea of self-perfection, gender equality, veneration of spiritual leaders, and celebration of traditional holidays), which differ significantly between these communities..

The conclusion was drawn that Alevis represent something more than a religious community, today it is an independent and strong social phenomenon. Anatolian Alevism is no longer about faith, but mostly about culture and lifestyle. Also, it has been proven that the use of the concepts «Alevism»and «Bektashism» as identical is erroneous, although there are similar features between them. Sometimes «Alevism» is attributed to Shiism and identified with Syrian Nusayrism or «Alawism», but these concepts are not identical, as evidenced by research by scholars from different sources.