SELF REFLECTION THROUGH SAMAA' EXPLORING THE SPIRITUAL EXPERIENECE OF QAWWALI

Abstract

This research investigates the role of Sufi Sama'1 in inducing transitory alterations in a person's sense of self by focusing on feelings of closeness to the Divine in this instance, Qawwali. In other words, the research will focus on the elements that make up this style of music such as rhythm, repetition, etc., which invoke various emotional and spiritual responses. From a theoretical standpoint, the study is based on previous literature in the same area. For example, Judith Becker (2004) outlines the ability of sound organization to bring about both emotional and transcendental experiences. At the same time, Gilbert Rouget (1985) focuses on the impact of music on altering a person's state of consciousness in a ritual context. Finally, Regula Burckhardt Qureshi (1986) provides an ethnographic perspective on the formal structure of Qawwali music and its effect on the listening audience. Although heightened spiritual states brought about by Qawwālī are transitory, their regular occurrence may lead to increased awareness and feelings of divine connection