Darqawi, Abu Hamid (Ahmad) al-Arabi al-
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: الدرقاوي أبو حميد أحمد العربي
- Turkish: Darqavî Ebû Hamid Ahmed al-Arabî
Overview
Darqawi, Abu Hamid (Ahmad) al-Arabi al- (d. 1823) was a prominent North African Sufi reformer and preacher known for his emphasis on noninvolvement in worldly affairs and Sufism’s spiritual essence. He firmly spoke against Sufi orders exploiting claims of barakah (blessings) for material or political gain. His teachings garnered a substantial following, eventually forming the basis of the Darqawi Sufi Order.
Historical Context
During his lifetime, Darqawi played a significant role in the regional religious and political landscape. He was imprisoned by the Moroccan ruler Mawlay Suleyman (r. 1792–1822) for allegedly supporting uprisings against the throne. Despite this, his influence did not wane; he was released by Mawlay Suleyman’s successor, Abd al-Rahman (r. 1822–1859).
Key Teachings and Beliefs
- Spiritual Purity: Darqawi championed spiritual purity and noninvolvement in worldly politics and material pursuits.
- Critique of Barakah Exploitation: He was a vocal critic of Sufi orders that manipulated claims of barakah for personal or political benefit.
- Community and Social Structure: Despite leading a reformist movement, his teachings attracted people across various social groups, emphasizing inclusivity in spiritual practices.
Darqawi Order
After his death, Abu Hamid al-Arabi al-Darqawi’s followers formally organized into a Sufi order named the Darqawi Tariqah. The order became one of the most significant spiritual movements in Morocco and later spread its influence across North Africa. Although its dominance waned over time, the Darqawi Tariqah remains an important aspect of North African Sufi heritage.
Suggested Books for Further Study
- “Islamic Sufism in the West: African Messages of Harmony” by H. R. Shiavi
- “Saints and Sufis in Post-Moghribi North Africa” by I. al-Duhaybi
- “Sufi Orders in Islam” by John O’Kane and Bernd Radtke
- “Moroccan Sufism and Religious Transformations” by Aziz Sahiri
Takeaways
- Abu Hamid al-Arabi al-Darqawi was a pivotal figure in North African Sufism.
- His teachings focused on spiritual purity and rejection of materialism and political involvement.
- The Darqawi Order remains influential, reflecting al-Darqawi’s reforms and spiritual focus.
Conclusion
Abu Hamid al-Arabi al-Darqawi’s impact on North African Sufism underscores the significance of spiritual integrity and the dangers of misusing religious claims for non-spiritual objectives. His legacy continues through the Darqawi Sufi Order, which still emphasizes the core values of his teachings.
