SOAS Research Online

Abstract

Amongst the multitude of attempts to re-examine the heritage, history and textual basis of the Alevi tradition, one particular issue remains of importance; the putative relationship between Alevi and Christian groups in the Balkans and Anatolia. In particular, one claim may be heard: that indigenous Christian sectarian communities such as the Paulicians and Bogomils may have converted to Islam via the Bektashis. This essay examines the evidence for such claims, which are often based on the spurious use of cultural motifs or even fabricated documents, and suggests that they are indeed not yet substantiated.