Shadhili, Abu al-Hasan Ali ibn Abd Allah al-
Description
Shadhili, Abu al-Hasan Ali ibn Abd Allah al- (d. 1258) was a prominent Moroccan-born Sufi mystic known for founding the Shadhili Sufi order (Arabic: الشاذلية, Al-Shādhiliyya; Turkish: Şazeli tarikatı). Educated in both Tunis and Morocco, he undertook extensive formal scholarship coupled with deep mystical exercises. As a result of opposition from establishment Tunisian ulama concerning his preaching, he moved to Alexandria, Egypt, in 1244. Here he successfully attracted students and followers, established a zāwiyah (Sufi lodge), and conceptualized the organizational structure, distinctive devotional practices, and social life of the Shadhili order, avoiding close relationships with governmental authorities.
Shadhili’s influences include various popular prayers and specific Sufi terminologies, contributing deeply to the traditions within Islamic mysticism. The Shadhili order stands as one of the four most ancient Sufi tariqahs and emerged predominantly influential in North Africa. He passed away in 1258 and was buried at Humaythra near the Red Sea.
Etymology
- Shadhili: Derived from Arabic (الشاذلية), associated with Abu al-Hasan, his birthplace Shadhila, and his family service titles.
- Sufi/Sufism: From Arabic (صوفية, Ṣūfīyah), referring to Islamic mysticism.
- Tariqah: From Arabic (طريقة, Ṭarīqah), meaning “path” or “way”, relating to a school or order of Sufism.
- Zawiyah: From Arabic (زاوية, Zāwiya), meaning “corner” or “angle”, referring to a Sufi meeting place.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Horizons of Faith: Shadhili Spirituality in North Africa” by A’ishah al-Shadhili
- “Sufi Healing and Ritual Practices of the Shadhili Order” by Martin Lings
- “Sufis and Saints’ Bodies: Mysticism, Corporeality, and Sacred Power in Islam” by Scott Kugle
Takeaways
- Shadhili, Abu al-Hasan was a pivotal figure in the development of mysticism within Islamic society.
- The Shadhili Sufi order, established by him, continues to have significant influence in North African Islamic culture.
- Fundamental concepts and practices within Sufism, such as communal gathering, specific prayers, and the abstention from political involvement, take root in the legacy of Abu al-Hasan al-Shadhili.
Conclusion
Abu al-Hasan al-Shadhili is remembered both for his rejection of institutional opposition and his deep commitment to the mystical dimensions of Islam. His work in establishing the Shadhili order has had a lasting impact, creating a vital component of Sufi practice that persists across generations in North Africa and beyond.
