Alevism, a mystical branch of Shia Islam, is a unique and lesser-known faith that originated in the Anatolian region of Turkey. It is a syncretic tradition that draws from various sources, including Shia and Sufi Islam, and local mystical traditions.
Central to Alevism is the concept of “Cins” or “Kaşıf,” which translates to the “divine spark” or “divine light.” This concept is closely tied to the Alevi understanding of the soul. According to Alevi belief, every human soul is a spark of the divine, a piece of God that resides within each individual. This belief stems from the idea that God, being infinite, cannot be fully comprehended or experienced in His entirety. Therefore, He manifests Himself in smaller, comprehensible forms, which are the individual souls.
The Alevi understanding of the soul’s divinity is deeply tied to their concept of God. Alevis believe in a formless and unknowable God who is referred to as “Allah” or “Tanrı.” This God is not a separate entity from creation but is present within it. This pantheistic view of God is expressed in the Alevi phrase “Tanrı’da insan, insanda Tanrı,” which translates to “God is in humanity, and humanity is in God.”
The divinity of the soul is also linked to the Alevi concept of “İnsan-ı Kamil,” or the “Perfect Human.” Alevis believe that the ultimate goal of human existence is to reach this state of perfection. This is achieved through a lifelong process of self-purification and enlightenment, known as the “Tarikat Yolu” or “Path of the Tarikat.”
The Alevi understanding of the soul’s divinity is not just a metaphysical concept but has profound ethical implications. Since every soul is a spark of the divine, every individual is inherently worthy of respect and dignity. This belief forms the basis of Alevi ethics, which emphasise love, compassion, and equality.
Alevism is a faith that holds a unique understanding of the soul’s divinity. It sees the soul as a piece of the divine, a spark of the formless and unknowable God that manifests Himself within creation. This belief has profound implications for Alevi ethics and forms the basis of their worldview. Despite being a lesser-known faith, Alevism offers rich insights into the nature of the soul and its relationship with the divine.
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