cemevis

Cemevi (plural cemevleri) is a term used for Alevi houses of worship and community centers in Turkey and in Alevi diaspora communities. These spaces function as religious, cultural, and social hubs, hosting ceremonies, study, and charitable activities. They are typically operated by a cemevi association and are led by a ded, a spiritual guide who oversees rituals and teaching, with assistance from lay participants and musicians.

The central ritual is the cem, a congregational ceremony that includes readings, devotional songs called nefes, and the semah, a circular dance performed by attendees. Cem ceremonies are often held on a regular schedule and on special occasions, and focus on themes of equality, justice, and memory of Alevi saints. The rituals emphasize communal participation and moral reflection in a manner distinct from Sunni mosque practices.

Beyond worship, cemevis provide education, life-cycle events such as births, marriages, and funerals, and cultural programs that sustain Alevi identity, including music, literature, and language. They often serve as community centers for youth programs, charitable work, and social services, reinforcing solidarity within Alevi communities.

Historically, the cemevi has been a distinct space for Alevis who follow a different liturgy than Sunni Islam. In Turkey, the legal and political status of cemevleri as places of worship and their access to official recognition and funding have been subjects of ongoing debate, reflecting broader tensions between secular institutions and minority rights. Worldwide, cemevis support immigrant and refugee communities by preserving tradition and providing social networks.