Sama

Sama

Definition and Spiritual Significance

Sama (Arabic: سماع) is a spiritual concert within the framework of Sufism, where public recitals of poetry are accompanied by music and often serve as part of a Sufi dhikr ritual. The term “Sama” translates to “listening” in Arabic, and these sessions are designed as a liturgical means of inducing a state of ecstasy and spiritual elation among participants. Often held on the same day each month, Sama plays a significant role in the spiritual practices of various Sufi orders.

Historical Context and Practices

In early Sufism, the Sama ritual involved three primary physical actions: dancing, whirling, and jumping. These movements contributed to the concept of the “whirling dervish,” commonly associated with the practice. By the eleventh century, some tariqahs (Sufi orders) introduced the practice of holding educational sessions to interpret important texts as a precursor to the poetry recitation and singing, thereby enriching the ritual’s intellectual and spiritual depth.

Ritual Components

1. Music and Poetry Recitation: At the heart of Sama lies the recitation of poetry, which is often sung or chanted, accompanied by musical instruments. This combination aims to uplift the spirit and deepen one’s intimate connection with the Divine.
2. Physical Actions: Traditional séances included dancing, whirling, and jumping, manifesting physical expressions of inner spiritual states.
3. Didactic Sessions: Post-eleventh century adaptations saw the inclusion of study sessions focused on sacred texts, blending intellectual engagement with mystical experience.

Controversy and Criticism

The use of music in religious contexts has been a point of contention, facing stern opposition from more orthodox and legalistic interpreters, who consider it an irreligious innovation (bid’ah in Arabic). Critics argue that Sama constitutes a deviation from the pure form of Islamic worship, leading to continuous debates within the broader Islamic community. These criticisms reflect a major religious and cultural rift concerning the legitimacy of Sufi practices.

See Also

• Mawlawi Tariqah: The order of whirling dervishes, closely associated with the practice of Sama.

Etymology

The word Sama originates from the Arabic root س-م-ع (s-m-‘), which means “to hear” or “to listen”. The term encompasses both the concept of auditory perception and spiritual listening.

Translations

• Arabic: سماع
• Turkish: Sema

Suggested Books for Further Study

1. “Mystical Dimensions of Islam” by Annemarie Schimmel
2. “Sufism: An Introduction to the Mystical Tradition of Islam” by Carl W. Ernst
3. “Sufi Music of India and Pakistan: Sound, Context and Meaning in Qawwali” by Regula Qureshi

Takeaways

• Sama is a cornerstone ritual in Sufi practice, synonymous with spiritual concerts that blend music, poetry, and spiritual activism.
• Historically, the practice evolved to incorporate both physical ecstatic movements and intellectual engagement.
• The ritual remains controversial, spotlighting enduring debates over the place of music and ecstatic experience in Islamic worship.

Conclusion

Sama continues to exemplify the rich tapestry of Islamic mysticism and the enduring allure of Sufi spirituality. Despite criticisms and divergences in opinon, this ritual highlights the depth and diversity within Islamic tradition, offering an intimate pathway for seekers to experience divine presence and communal spiritual elevation.