Sensuality Sect

Today, it is estimated that there are thirty orders of sects, around four hundred branches affiliated with them, and around eight hundred madrasahs operating in Turkey. Sects, many of which have turned into holdings, form a large economic sector. As in every rapidly developing sector, the informal and underground economy is also developing in this area. A strong belief is instilled that the salvation of the individual will occur through the community. While underground sects and communities imitate the methods and discourses of traditional sects, they resort to inspiration and dreams as sources of information and to superstitions, rumors, miracles and stories as evidence. Followers are persuaded through various methods and are subjected to mainly economic and sexual abuse.

İsmail Saymaz examines the cases of six fake sheikhs, who were primary school graduates, did not know Arabic or the Quran, did not even perform religious duties such as prayer and fasting, and some of them had hundreds of followers, and a lawsuit was filed against them. These sheikhs, some of whom also run Quran courses and own lodges, subjugate the will of hundreds of women and men in a world where lust and the desire to acquire wealth are intertwined. They can continue their activities for years unless a complaint or notice is filed against them. Essentially, they benefit from the official tolerance, protection and immunity granted to “real sheikhs” by the state. The Order of Sensuality sheds light on a world where the ambition to gain quick wealth and repressed sexual desires are provoked and used on the basis of religious beliefs.

(From the Promotional Bulletin)

Dough Type: 2nd Dough

Number of Pages: 118

Size: 13 x 19.5

First Print Year: 2019

Number of Printings: 1st Edition

Language Turkish