Hamallism
Definition
Hamallism - A Malian offshoot of the Tijani Sufi brotherhood that advocated social reform programs, stressed the equality of all people, supported the liberation of women, and opposed the wealth of establishment religious leaders. Distinct for its veneration of its founder, Shaykh Hamallah. Notably, some followers altered the shahadah (Islamic declaration of faith) to include, “There is no god but God and Hamallah is our shaykh.” Despite its leader’s espousal of pacifism, some followers were involved in violent conflicts with rival groups, resulting in harsh suppression by colonial authorities.
Etymology
The term “Hamallism” is derived from the name of its founder, Shaykh Hamallah. In Arabic: حمالية (Hamāliyyah), in Turkish: Hamallilik.
Historical and Cultural Context
Hamallism developed as a reformist movement within the Tijaniyyah Sufi brotherhood in Mali. It sought to address issues of social inequality, tribalism, and the monopolization of wealth by religious leaders. The movement’s radical reformism and the followers’ strong veneration of Shaykh Hamallah led to tension with both French colonial authorities and other Islamic groups.
Key Features
- Social Reform: Promoted extensive social reform programs.
- Equality and Women’s Liberation: Strongly advocated for the equality of all individuals and the liberation of women.
- Anti-Elitism: Opposed the concentration of wealth and power among religious leaders.
- Veneration of Shaykh Hamallah: Unique for stating loyalty to Hamallah in an expanded shahadah.
- Pacifism and Conflict: Despite the movement’s pacifist origins, it was involved in violent conflicts with rival nomadic groups, which led to suppression by French authorities.
Outcomes and Evolution
Two distinct responses emerged from the initial upheavals and subsequent repression:
- Brief Jihads: Instances of militancy and short-lived jihads in response to the suppression.
- Quietist Tradition: A significant portion of the movement turned towards a more quietist approach, which influenced later forms of African socialism, nationalism, and the mobilization of the masses.
Further Reading
- Robinson, David. Muslim Societies in African History. Cambridge University Press, 2004.
- Sanneh, Lamin O. West African Islam: A Study of Religious Development from the 8th to the 20th Century. Clarendon Press, 1983.
- Brenner, Louis. Controlling Knowledge: Religion, Power, and Schooling in a West African Muslim Society. Indiana University Press, 2000.
Takeaways
- Inspired Social Change: Hamallism was a catalyst for significant social reforms within the local communities.
- Complex Legacy: While promoting pacifism, the movement’s involvement in violent incidents complicates its historical legacy.
- Impact on Modern Movements: Its quietist tradition laid important groundwork for later socio-political movements in Africa.
Conclusion
Hamallism stands as a significant example of Islamic reform within the Sufi tradition, demonstrating the dynamic and sometimes contentious relationship between religious movements and social changes. It highlights the role of religious leadership in challenging entrenched social hierarchies and advocating for the rights of marginalized groups.
