Approach of the theological academy in Turkey to the issue of Alevism

Religion, communities which are formed around religion, and groups are social systems that create and affect the dynamics of social structure. Especially in the Anatolian region, these religious groups, which are part of the social system, have a significant space. Alevism, means belonging to Hazrat Ali, is a path through Islam, blended with the love of Ali and Ahl al-Bayt. Alevism, which takes its roots from the past and whose impact on the present cannot be ignored, is a current issue in terms of social, political, and societal aspects. Therefore, it has been studied many times about Alevism, an extensive literature has been created in this field. The aim of this study is to examine the issue of Alevism, which has been reconsidered from different perspectives at different times, from the perspective of the theological academies, which are among those interested in the subject. In the first part of the study, which consists of three main chapters except the introduction, the elements that gave rise to and nourish Alevism are addressed, focusing on the historical-theological contexts of Alevism, Islamic history and Islamic geography. Additionally, the differentiation between Alevism and Bektashism, often used interchangeably, is addressed. The second section examines the sociological dimensions of the Alevism issue in Turkey, focusing on how Alevis perceive themselves, new approaches to Alevism, and the historical relationship between Alevis and the state. In the last part of the study, the thoughts of the five names who produced the most works on Alevism in the theological academy regarding current Alevi problems and demands were examined. KEYWORDS: Religion, Alevism, Bektashism, Theology, Cemevi.