Menzil Community

The Menzil Community is a branch of the Naqshbandiyya-Khalidiyya Sufi order that originated in Adıyaman, Turkey. It takes its name from the village of Menzil in Adıyaman. The movement was founded by Mehmet Rasit Erol, who was recognized for his support of the government during the time of the 1980 Turkish coup d'état.[1][2][3]

After the 1980 military coup, the Menzil Community experienced rapid growth, partly due to its reputation as a religious order that supported the state. The community expanded to cities such as Ankara and Istanbul.[4][5]

Menzil has become one of the largest and fastest-growing religious orders in Turkey, attracting followers from various backgrounds, including small business owners, unemployed individuals, and urban and middle-class populations. The community has embraced politics and operates under the AK Party.[6]