AYIN

Ayin: translation

   Islamic ritual dance associated with the Sufi order of Mevlevi, founded by Jalāl al-dīn Rūmī (1207–1273) and now centered in Konya, Turkey. The roughly 100 surviving ayin compositions date from the 16th century, although the earliest musical notation is 18th century. Qu’rānic recitations frame an address to the Prophet (na’t), instrumental preludes, four Turkish songs (selam) on texts by Rumi, and an instrumental postlude. Traditional instruments include end-blown flutes, drum, and in some areas types of lute and fiddle.

   See also Dhikr; Kirtana; Madīh; Qīra; Sama.