Who We Are
The Dutch Mevlevi School, our learning community, sees itself as an 'empty vessel' where the stream of Hz. Mevlânâ Rûmî’s living tradition may enter. To create and offer a space of love, courtesy, service and connection within the living tradition of Hz. Mevlânâ Rûmî as it has existed in other places in the world for centuries.
The Koran and the example of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ are the source from which Hz. Mevlânâ spoke his words and lived. The message of Hz. Mevlânâ Rûmî is both Islamic and universal. It reminds us that love is the essence of creation, and that each individual can find their own path to it.
The Dutch Mevlevi School aims to share this message and journey within the Dutch setting, not by altering its essence, but by demonstrating how Islamic mysticism embodies humanity and fosters connection through heartfelt engagement.
Whatever we do is just a form. The mission is the heart that beats at the core of all those forms. This concerns inner devotion and practical service. It has nothing to do with someone's title, position or level of knowledge. Togetherness creates a space in which connection and inner growth are central.
This path is the path to our heart.
Our Space
We gather in a simple space. Not a grand building, but a house of silence and sound. It is a space where a warm welcome is present. A place where we come together as companions on the path of tasawwuf.
The echoes of Hz. Mevlana’s wisdom calls us once again to gather, to learn, and to walk together on the sacred path of tasawwuf.
How we meet is not merely a meeting but a gathering of hearts, a weaving of souls, as we delve into the treasures of Hz. Mevlana’s teachings. Where we dive into the essence of sufi teachings, a path that is both individual and universal.
Tasawwuf is not a study confined to books or words—it is the unveiling of the true self, the fitrah, hidden beneath the veils of this worldly existence. It is the fulfillment of our divine covenant with Allah, transforming every breath, every act, into an act of worship.
Walking this path requires patience and discipline to undo the ego (nafs), and to open oneself to guidance. This guidance starts with the teacher or Murshid, who acts as a reflection of the light of Truth.
All that we do, we try to do with safety, inclusivity, and adab:
Safety: What is shared in the circle remains confidential. We provide a safe atmosphere in which everyone can speak openly, safe in the knowledge that everything will be treated with respect and discretion.
Inclusivity: Our goal is to create an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued, regardless of origin, belief or life path. The door is open to seekers from many walks of life.
Service: Everyone contributes to our meetings in their own way. Together, we ensure that our meetings are valuable and meaningful for all.
How We Work
ANBI-status
The International Dutch Mevlana Foundation (Internationale Mevlana Stichting Nederland) is classified as an ANBI-organization. Donations made to organizations classified as ANBI’s are eligible for tax benefits.
The International Mevlana Foundation Netherlands was established with the aim of making public and sharing the centuries-old spiritual heritage, tradition and work of the medieval Islamic mystic Hz. Mevlânâ Rûmî.