Turkish teacher on why she embraces Sufi lifestyle

Riada Ašimović Akyol

Mar 5, 2015

Whirling Dervishes perform during the Mevlana's 737th Reunion Anniversary International Commemoration Ceremonies in the central Turkish city of Konya, December 7, 2010. Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi is an Anatolian philosopher, poet and the founder of the Whirling Dervish and Mevlevi sect. REUTERS/Osman Orsal (TURKEY - Tags: RELIGION) - RTXVII0 — Whirling dervishes perform in the central Turkish city of Konya, Dec. 7, 2010. — REUTERS/Osman Orsal

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While Cemalnur Sargut is a renowned writer, researcher and teacher of Islamic tasawwuf (Sufism) in Turkey, not enough is heard about her abroad. Her radiant smile, soothing voice and instruction of peaceful doctrines of Sufism keep attracting an ever-increasing number of followers in Turkey.

It was Sargut’s early curiosity in philosophy that led her to a detailed study of the Quran, discovery of Rumi and embracement of Sufism as a particular lifestyle. So, though she taught chemistry for 20 years, she found her true calling elsewhere. She shares her tasawwuf mastery through "Masnavi" lessons, alongside numerous books and conferences where audiences listen enthusiastically. Since 2000, Sargut has been president of the Turkish Women’s Cultural Association, Istanbul (TURKKAD).