The whirling dervishes wear special costumes that represent the death of the ego. Here, a female dervish, or semazen, whirls around the dance chamber to soulful music and accompanying choir called "Mutrib". She is wearing a red full-skirted long gown which represents a shroud. One arm is extended with the hand opened upwards, while the other hand is turned downward. The gesture signifies that the dervish receives from God with one hand, and gives to Man with the other, keeping nothing.

Nikon 8008 35-135mm Sensia 200

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copyright @1997 Tewfic El-Sawy.