This Thursday, Pope Francis received the World Leader of the Bektashi Order, Baba Mondi, at the Holy See in the Vatican.
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| Pope Francis and Baba Mondi |
It has been revealed that Pope Francis and Baba Mondi jointly signed the Document of Human Fraternity. This document, also known as the Abu Dhabi Declaration, was first made public in 2019 and aims to promote global peace and harmony among all people.
Who is Baba Mondi?
Baba Mondi, whose full title is Haji Dede Edmond Brahimaj, is the current Kryegjysh (World Leader) of the Bektashi Order, a Sufi Islamic spiritual tradition with deep roots in Albania and other regions of the Balkans, Turkey, and the Middle East. Born in 1959 in southern Albania, Baba Mondi has been a key figure in preserving and promoting Bektashism, particularly after the fall of communism in Albania, which had severely restricted religious practices.
Bektashism is a mystical order within Islam that emphasizes tolerance, peace, and interfaith dialogue, blending elements of Shia Islam, Sufism, and local traditions. Known for its inclusive philosophy, the Bektashi Order respects all religions and promotes spiritual unity beyond dogmatic divisions. Baba Mondi has been instrumental in reviving these teachings and expanding their influence globally, especially as Albania has become the central hub for Bektashism since the establishment of the World Headquarters in Tirana in 1929.
Baba Mondi’s leadership has been marked by a commitment to promoting religious tolerance and human fraternity. He is a respected voice in interfaith discussions and has met with global leaders from various religious and cultural backgrounds to further the values of peace and coexistence. His meeting with Pope Francis at the Vatican represents another milestone in the Order's efforts to foster dialogue and collaboration between different faiths.
A Shared Vision for Peace
The signing of the Document of Human Fraternity is a significant gesture that symbolizes the shared commitment of the Catholic Church and the Bektashi Order to building bridges of understanding and solidarity. The document, originally signed by Pope Francis and the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar in Abu Dhabi in 2019, is a call to action for all faith leaders to work together for global peace and mutual respect.
This historic meeting also ties into broader efforts to create spaces for interfaith dialogue. Prime Minister Edi Rama’s proposal to establish a sovereign Bektashi state is part of this vision. By providing a platform for the Bektashi community to thrive and share its inclusive values, the initiative seeks to promote a tolerant and harmonious version of Islam that aligns with the principles of the Document of Human Fraternity.
The Legacy of Bektashism in Albania
Albania has long been a beacon of religious coexistence, with communities of Muslims, Christians, and Jews living side by side for centuries. The Bektashi Order, with its emphasis on spiritual inclusivity, has played a key role in fostering this harmony.
The 95th anniversary of the Bektashi World Headquarters’ establishment in Tirana is a reminder of Albania’s unique place in the history of interfaith dialogue. Baba Mondi’s leadership continues to honor this legacy while positioning the Bektashi Order as a global force for peace and understanding.
A Message of Hope
The meeting between Pope Francis and Baba Mondi serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for unity among faiths in a world often divided by differences. By signing the Document of Human Fraternity and discussing shared goals, they have reaffirmed the importance of dialogue, mutual respect, and collaboration in addressing the challenges facing humanity today.
As the Bektashi Order celebrates its milestone anniversary, this historic encounter highlights the enduring relevance of its teachings and the shared mission of religious leaders to build a more peaceful and harmonious world.