Abdal Musa Naming Ceremonies

Abdal Musa Memorial Events are traditional ceremonies held around the Abdal Musa Türbesi in Tekke village, approximately 17 km from the Elmalı district of Antalya. Since 1983, these events have been held annually during the third week of June, bringing together participants from within Türkiye and abroad who come to visit one of the most important centers of the Alevi-Bektaşi tradition. The ceremonies are regarded as part of spiritual tourism and constitute a significant cultural movement for the region.

Historical Background and Abdal Musa

The central figure of these events, Abdal Musa, was a Turkish dervish who lived during the 14th century under the Seljuks. Originally from Khorasan, he was also known as "Hoylu." A member of the Hacı Bektaş-ı Veli Dergâh, Abdal Musa played a vital role in the formation, institutionalization, and spread of the Alevi-Bektaşi tradition. Because of this historical and spiritual significance, he is regarded in the tradition as the "Piri Sani," meaning the second pir after Hacı Bektaş Veli. The eleventh of the twelve posts in Bektaşi hierarchy, known as "Ayakçı Postu," is also called "Abdal Musa Sultan Postu."

A view of the Abdal Musa Türbesi in Elmalı, Antalya (Antalya Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism)

The Significance of the Abdal Musa Tekke

The Abdal Musa Tekke established in Tekke village is counted among the four main dergâhs of the Alevi-Bektaşi tradition. Known as the "Halife" seat due to its location within Türkiye's borders and its contributions to the culture, this dergâh holds a unique importance in Alevi-Bektaşi belief. Over time, the structure evolved into a fully endowed dergâh with rich endowments and continues to exist today as the Abdal Musa Türbesi. Throughout history, no conflict has ever occurred around the tomb, which has instead been universally recognized by all social groups as a spiritual site.

Event Content and Sites of Visit

The memorial ceremonies, organized by the Association for the Study and Preservation of Abdal Musa Culture, create a spiritual atmosphere in the region. Visitors participate by visiting the tomb, offering sacrifices, and engaging in prayers and niyaz. The main sacred sites visited during the events are:

• Abdal Musa Türbesi: The main structure containing the coffins of Abdal Musa, his mother, his father, his brother, and his disciple Kaygusuz Abdal.
• Budala Sultan Türbesi: Located near the Abdal Musa Türbesi, at the foot of the mountain, it is considered one of the sacred sections of the külliye.
• Holy Well: Situated about 200 meters from the tomb, this well is believed to have healing waters and is equated by the people with the water of Kevser.
• Dilek Rock and Trees: Associated with the Durdağı legend, the rock and surrounding trees are places where visitors make wishes by tying cloths or turning stones.
• Uçarsu Waterfall and Yeşilgöl: The Uçarsu Waterfall, located at the foot of Akdağ, is considered sacred due to the tradition that Abdal Musa caused water to flow from the rock with his staff. Yeşilgöl in the same area is also visited for its spiritual significance.