The Tradition of Khilwat (Seclusion) and Isolation

Abstract

Underground mosques are of particular historical importance in the spread of Islam in the Kazakh steppe. The underground mosque “Khilvet” and the Sufi tradition of solitude served among the people as a method of spiritual purification and improvement of the individual. The goal of the study is a scientific and historical analysis of the concept of “khilvet” and the tradition of solitude, which later began to be forgotten. To achieve the goal of the study, the works of medieval travelers, turkish and russian scientists, domestic and foreign researchers who wrote about the «khilvet» and the tradition of solitude as a source were considered, the «kiluet» and the tradition of solitude in the sufi teachings of Khoja Ahmet Yasawi described in the premises of the «Gar» (cave) and shildekhana of the underground mosques. The scientific results of the article will complement our historical knowledge and show the younger generation the religious and spiritual history of our people. Conclusion. An analysis of the concept of “kiluet” and the conditions of Sufi seclusion in the tradition of seclusion on the basis of historical and scientific literature made it possible to define this religious tradition.