Shuyukh of the path
Mashaikh
Sheikh ‘Abd as-Salam Ibn Mashish
559 or 563 - 622 AH
Sheikh Abd al-Salam ibn Sulayman, known as Ibn Mashish, was born around 559 or 563 H in a village in the region of Ghumara, northern Morocco. His lineage goes back to Sayyiduna Idris, the founder of the city of Fes and descendant of Sayyiduna al-Hasan, grandson of the Blessed Prophet ﷺ. He was the disciple of Sidi Abu Madyan al-Ghawth and was the spiritual guide of Imam Abul Hassan ash-Shadhili, his only disciple.
He studied the Quran and Maliki jurisprudence, becoming a scholar in his own right. He devoted the last twenty years of his life to spiritual contemplation and retreat on Jabal al-Alam which culminated in his encounter with Imam Abul Hassan ash-Shadhili. During the encounter, Imam ash-Sadhili was asked to perform the ablution twice before realising that the purification required of him was inward. It was in this state of total surrender that Sidi Ibn Mashish embraced him with the deep love of acceptance.
Sidi Ibn Mashish died as a martyr in the year 622 H when he was killed by the Spanish, led by their missionary Ibn Abi Tawajin Laktami on Jabal al-Alam. He was buried on the mountain where he met his only disciple. His tomb on Jabal al-Alam is the first visited shrine in Northern Morocco. ☪︎
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Sheikh Abu al-Hasan ash-Shadhili
1196 -1258 AD
Imam Abūl Hasan ash-Shādhilī ق was born in 1196 AD among the Berber Ghomara tribe in northern Morocco. He was a follower from the Maliki Madhab and was a seeker of knowledge. This knowledge provides him the ability to participate in exchanging reasons with fellow religious scholars of his time.
Blessed with the gift to memorise the Noble Quran, the Prophetic Hadith literature and Islamic legal theory at a young age, Imam Abūl Hasan ash-Shādhilī ق set out on a journey to Baghdad hoping to find an experienced Shaykh that could guide him on the path.
Imam Abūl Hasan ash-Shādhilī ق, was eventually guided by his Shaykh Sidi ‘Abdussalam ibn Mashish for his spiritual journey. He later entered a retreat in a cave at the top of Jabal Zaghwan. Imam Abūl Hasan ash-Shādhilī ق later proceeded with spreading his Knowledge across North Africa. This led him to opening his first Zawiya in Tunis, 1227AD.
Imam ash-Shādhilī first students were known as the forty friends (al-awliya al-arba’un). This effort & influence resulted with increasing masses of people from different walks of life, including the sultan’s family.
Among the many writings attributed to Imam Abūl Hasan ash-Shādhilī ق is the famous litany “Hizb Bahar” translated as the ‘Litany of the Sea’, authored whilst on his Journey to Hajj.
Imam Shādhilī returned to his Creator in 1258 in Humaythra, Egypt. The sheikh was accompanied by a mass of his disciples while he was on his way to the pilgrimage in Mecca. But he fell ill in the eastern desert of Egypt. His shrine is located there, between Marsa Alam and Aswan,and is highly venerated.☪︎
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Sheikh Abu al-‘Abbas al-Mursi
616 - 685 AH
Sheikh al-Mursi’s full name is Ahmed bin Umar bin Ali al-Khazraji. He was born on 616 AH (1219 AD) in Murcia, Spain to a wealthy family of traders. Back then, Murcia was in the Andalusian part of Spain. His paternal ancestry traces back to the Khazraj leader Sa’ad bin Ubada.
As an adolescent, Sheikh al-Mursi mastered jurisprudence. Subsequently, he joined his father in trading and became well-known as one of the most honest businessman. When Sheikh al-Mursi was around 24 years old, his father decided that the family will go for Hajj via sea. There was a storm on their way to Makkah and the boat capsized. Only Sheikh al-Mursi and his brother survived. They found themselves at Tunisia and started a new life there.
Sheikh al-Mursi left trading and learned Qur’an at a Tunisian zawiya called Mihriz bin Khalaf. This is where he met Sheikh Abu Hasan al-Shadhili. He kept company with Sheikh al-Shadhili and learned Tasawwuf through him. Sheikh al-Shadhili married his daughter to Shaykh al-Mursi. When Sheikh al-Shadhili passed away, Sheikh al-Mursi became his successor.
Sheikh al-Mursi focused on balance and moderation when teaching Tasawwuf. For example, he did not prevent his students from wearing beautiful clothes if their intention was accepted by Islam. Sheikh al-Mursi is reported to be concerned about the spiritual state of his students. He was also particular about how he spent his time.
Sheikh al-Mursi returned to his Lord on 685 AH (1286 AD). His tomb is in Alexandria, Egypt. It is in the Sidi Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi mosque. ☪︎
Source: https://mazaratmisr.org/alexandria/sayyidina-abu-al-abbas-al-mursi/
Sheikh Ibn Ata’illah as-Sakandari
658 - 709 AH
Sheikh Tāj al-Dīn Abū'l-Faḍl Aḥmad, or more famously and simply known as Ibn ‘Ata’illah Al-Iskandari ash-Shādhilī, was born in 658 AH (1259 CE) in Alexandria into a family of “distinguished family of Malikite scholars”. In his early years, Sheikh Ibn ‘Ata’Allah received a traditional Islamic education under some of the most illustrious teachers of Alexendria. Despite his father being a contemporary and student of Imam Abu al-Hasan al-Shadzili, in his early life, Ibn ‘Ata’illah's core pursuit was in matters of jurisprudence and he was generally opposed to Sufism.
This very opposition towards Sufism paved the way for Sheikh Ibn ‘Ata’illah to have arguments with students of Sheikh Abu’l ‘Abbas al-Mursi, the successor of Imam Abu al-Hasan al-Shadzili. This changed radically when Sheikh Ibn ‘Ata’Allah attended a lecture by Sheikh Abu’l ‘Abbas al-Mursi himself sometime in 674 AH, where he became one of the most serious and promising student of Sheikh Abu’l ‘Abbas al-Mursi. This eventually led him to be the third great master, i.e., second successor, of the Shadhili order. Henceforth, Sheikh Ibn ‘Ata’illah committed himself to both matters of jurisprudence and Sufism, teaching both subjects in both the Azhar Mosque and Mansuriyyah Madrasah in Cairo.
Sheikh Ibn ‘Ata’illah is one of those who has confronted Ibn Taymiyyah pertaining to criticisms directed at Sufism. Before his passing in 709AH, 13th of Jamaladul-Awal (1309 CE) and entombed in Qarafa cemetery in Cairo, Sheikh Ibn ‘Ata’illah would have written many books that are still widely read up to today, such as Al-Hikam (Aphorisms) and Miftah al-falah (The Key to Success). ☪︎
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Sheikh Dawud al-Kabir Ibn Makhala
d. 732 AH
Sayyidi Abu Sulayman Dawud al-Kabir Ibn ‘Umar Ibn Makhala al-Kahhari as-Sakandari is known as Ghauth al-Asfiya’ and a Qutb of awliya’. He is a knowledgeable scholar and a spiritual guide for many wayfarers who have successfully reached Allah (wusul). He is based in Alexandria, Egypt.
Despite being illiterate, he is bestowed with immense knowledge, both inward and outward. He was under the tutelage of al-Imam ‘Ata’illah as-Sakandari, the author of the renowned book Hikam. With his sincere and devout spiritual journey, he was chosen as the inheritor of his Teacher. Under him, many great scholars were nurtured, among which includes al-arif billah ash-Shaykh Sidi Muhammad Wasa Bahr as-Safa ash-Shadhili.
He also wrote many books, with the help of his students, which describe the state of awliya’ as well as discuss the secrets, knowledge and position they hold. Books include Uyuun al-Haqaiq, Kasyf al-Balaghah fi al-Ma’ani and Syarh of Hizb al-Barr and Hizb al-Bahr.
Sheikh Dawud al-Kabir’s famous words include
To turn the heart towards لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا ٱللَّٰهُ is better than completing all the deeds in the world but the heart is turning away from Allah.
It is baffling for a lover to not be standing in front of the door of their lover.
Sheikh Dawud al-Kabir passed on in the year 732H. He was buried around al-Hijari street in Raks at-Tin in Alexandria.☪︎
Source:
- Tengku Ahmad Saufie Tg Abdul Rahman, An-Nafahat Ar-Rabbaniyyah Al-’Aliyyah (pada manaqib as-Sadah al-Hashimiyyah al-’Alawiyyah ad-Darqawiyyah ash-Shadhiliyyah), Pertubuhan Dakwah & Kebajikan Ad-Dur Al-Mukhtar, 2019.
Sheikh Muhammad Wafa Nahm as-Safa
d. 765 AH
Sheikh Muhammad Wafa Nahm as-Safa was born in Alexandria in 702 AH. He was pious and loved knowledge. He followed the path of Abu al-Hasan al-Shadhili under the guidance of Imam Dawud Ibn Bakhila, a disciple of the great Egyptian master Sidi Ibn Ata’ Allah al-Iskandari.
It was said that he is named Wafa because one day the river Nile stopped its yearly rise, falling short of its completion (Al-Wafa). Sheikh Muhammad Wafa appeared at the river’s edge and supplicated his Lord for its inundation. The river then flooded and reached its proper level.
He got married and established his Zawiyya in Akhmim in Upper Egypt before moving to Cairo, residing on the island of Al-Ruda. He was from among the greatest gnostics and wrote many works, among them Kitab Al-‘Arus, Kitab Al-Sha’a’ir and a great diwan of poetry. Many of his books are still preserved in manuscript form in Al-Azhar library and the Egyptian National Library. He rose to prominence and people flocked to visit and gain benefit from him.
He died in Cairo, on the 11th of Rabi’ al-Awwal, in the year 765 AH and was buried in the Qarafa cemetery between Shadhili sheikhs, Abu-s-Sa’ud Ibn Abil Asha’ir and Taj al-Din Ibn ‘Ata’ Allah al-Iskandari. ☪︎
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Sheikh Ali Wafa Muhammad Wafa
b. 759 AH
Al-Imam al-‘arif billah Sidi Abu al-Hasan ‘Ali Wafa Ibn Muhammad Wafa al-Maliki ash-Shadhili is one of the renowned Awliya in Egypt. He was born on 759 AH, shortly before the demise of his beloved father. It is narrated that Sidi ‘Ali Wafa was handsome and always well-dressed.
Sidi ‘Ali Wafa received tarbiyyah from his father, Sidi Muhammad Wafa Bahr as-Safa since young. Upon his father’s demise, Sidi ‘Ali Wafa and his brother, Sidi Shihab al-Din Ahmad Wafa’ was raised by his father’s murid, ash-Shaykh az-Zayla’i. He ensured that they received tarbiyyah and guidance to be a Rabbani; attached to Allah SWT.
At the age of 17, Sidi ‘Ali Wafa was given the responsibility of taking his father’s position in the Zawiyah his father had established. The Zawiyah is named ‘as-Sadat al-Wafaiyya’. His majlis became well-known, and his followers and students (murid) increased. Despite his popularity, Sidi ‘Ali Wafa often concealed himself from people. His residence was located mainly in Cairo’s Rawda.
Sidi ‘Ali Wafa wrote a collection of invocations, litanies, admonitions and poetry. He wrote a lot of books on the secrets of those who practice Tasawwuf and the Awliya.
His well-known sayings are:
If Shaytaan could witness the emanation of light from Prophet Muhammad s.a.w on Nabi Adam a.s’s face, surely Shaytaan would have been the first creation to prostrate to Nabi Adam a.s.
Your state can be determined by how you witness your teacher. Thus, bear witness to what you want and observe what you want to see. If you only witness a creation, then you are a creation who is veiled from the truth. If you witness truth (haq), then you are truthful (haq). Similar to what Allah states in a Hadith Qudsi, “I am as My servant thinks I am.”☪︎
Sources:
- Tengku Ahmad Saufie Tg Abdul Rahman, An-Nafahat Ar-Rabbaniyyah Al-’Aliyyah (pada manaqib as-Sadah al-Hashimiyyah al-’Alawiyyah ad-Darqawiyyah ash-Shadhiliyyah), Pertubuhan Dakwah & Kebajikan Ad-Dur Al-Mukhtar, 2019.
- Al-Kuhin, Muhammad Qasim. Tabaqat Al-Shadhiliyyah Al-Kubra Biographies of Prominent Shadhilis. Translated by Ahmad Ali Al-Adani, First, Visions of Reality Books, 2016.
- https://m.facebook.com/NelsonNaqshbandiHaqqani/videos/shaykh-muhammad-wafa-%D9%82he-was-born-in-alexandria-and-his-lineage-traces-back-to-t/527778925904009/
- https://occidentalexile.wordpress.com/2010/05/22/al-qutb-al-kamil-sidi-mohammed-wafa-al-idrissi-al-hassani-d-7651363/
Sheikh Yahya Ibn Ahmad Wafa ash-Sharif al-Qadiri
798 - 857 AH
His full name is Al-Imam Al-Qutb Al-Arif billah Sidi Abu As-Sadat Yahya Ibn Ahmad Ash-Sharif Ibn Muhammad Wafa Al-Maliki Ash-Shadhili Al-Misri. Sheikh Yahya, his siblings and his father were known as ibn Wafa because they are descended from Sidi Muhammad Wafa Bahr as-Safa. Shaikh Yahya was born in the year 798 AH.
Sheikh Yahya and his siblings received tarbiyyah (nurturing) from their uncle, Sidi Ali Wafa, who was renowned as the inheritor of the famous Shadhiliyyah Tariqah in Egypt. One of Sidi Ali Wafa’s significant contributions was his composition of supplications, prayers, admonitions, poetry and other works.
Sheikh Yahya was entrusted to take over the task of leading the majlis and affairs of tarbiyyah after the death of his brother, Sidi Abu Al-Fath rahimahumullah, in the year 852 AH. His majlis was blessed by Allah SWT as more and more people came and benefitted from him. Many also visited him to seek his advice.
Sheikh Yahya al-Qadiri passed away in the year of 857 Hijri and was buried near the graves of his family members, located at the foot of Muqattam hill, Eastern Desert plateau built over the southern area of Cairo, Egypt. ☪︎
Sources:
- Tengku Ahmad Saufie Tg Abdul Rahman, An-Nafahat Ar-Rabbaniyyah Al-’Aliyyah (pada manaqib as-Sadah al-Hashimiyyah al-’Alawiyyah ad-Darqawiyyah ash-Shadhiliyyah), Pertubuhan Dakwah & Kebajikan Ad-Dur Al-Mukhtar, 2019.
Sheikh Abu al-Abbas Ahmad Ibn Uqbah al-Hadrami
d. 857 AH
Sidi Taj ad-Din Abu’l-´Abbas Ahmad b. ´Uqba al-Hadrami al-Yamani al-Wafa’i is great saint and renowned luminary, may Allah Most High purify his lofty secret.
His birth took place in the land of Hadramawt. He moved to Cairo, Egypt and took it up as his place of residence. He acquired knowledge of the Sufi path and received the lights of ultimate reality from his guide and mentor Sidi Mawlay al-Sharif Abu al-Siyadat Yahya al-Qadiri b. Wafa b. Sayyidi Shihab al-Din Ahmad b. Wafa, the son of the great qutb Sidi Abu’l-Tadani Muhammad Wafa.
What occured to his disciple, Sidi Ahmad Zarruq, is an example of the momentous events and intuitions that transpired for the shaykh. It took place when Sidi Ahmad Zarruq arrived from Morocco. Sheikh Abu’l-‘Abbas said to his students, ‘Let us go to Bulaq to meet your Moroccan brother’, to which they then set out and arrived at the marina. There, they saw Ustadh Ahmad Zarruq alighting from the boat he had travelled on, and who then met with our master Abu’l-‘Abbas. He then took Sidi Ahmad Zarruq with him to Cairo, instructed him in knowledge of Sufi covenants and litanies, and entered him into khalwa.
Sheikh Abu’l-´Abbas al-Hadrami passed away in Cairo on 857H and was laid to rest within the family cemetery of Bani al-Wafa..☪︎
Source:
- Tengku Ahmad Saufie Tg Abdul Rahman, An-Nafahat Ar-Rabbaniyyah Al-’Aliyyah (pada manaqib as-Sadah al-Hashimiyyah al-’Alawiyyah ad-Darqawiyyah ash-Shadhiliyyah), Pertubuhan Dakwah & Kebajikan Ad-Dur Al-Mukhtar, 2019.
- Bio: Sh. Ahmad ibn ‘Uqbah al-Hadrami – Damas Cultural Society (nur.nu)/
- Al-Kuhin, Muhammad Qasim. Tabaqat Al-Shadhiliyyah Al-Kubra Biographies of Prominent Shadhilis. Translated by Ahmad Ali Al-Adani, First, Visions of Reality Books, 2016.
Sheikh Abu Ishaq Ibrahim az-Zarhuni al-Fahham
d. 910 AH
Sidi Ibrahim was considered al-imam al-’arif-billah, one who possessed a dignified state. He was born in the town of Mount Zerhoun, Morocco, which was known for producing many ulama and waliAllah. Not much information is known about him as he was usually alone in a state of khalwah in remembrance of Allah.
Sidi was known for possessing special spiritual insights even before undertaking the path of refinement, Tarbiyah Tasawwuf. One of which was his frequent dreams of meeting Rasulullah (s.a.w.). He treaded the path of Tarbiyah Tasawwuf through the tariqah of Al-Imam ash-Shadhilli by the hand of al-imam al-Kabir ash-Shaykh Sidi Abu al-’Abbas Ahmad Ibn Ahmad Zarruq.
He did not acquire any murids other than al-imam Abu al-Hasan ‘Ali as-Sanhaji as he was always in the state of khalwah.
He passsed away on 910H and his maqam is on Mount Zerhoun, Morocco. ☪︎
Sources:
- Tengku Ahmad Saufie Tg Abdul Rahman, An-Nafahat Ar-Rabbaniyyah Al-’Aliyyah (pada manaqib as-Sadah al-Hashimiyyah al-’Alawiyyah ad-Darqawiyyah ash-Shadhiliyyah), Pertubuhan Dakwah & Kebajikan Ad-Dur Al-Mukhtar, 2019.
Sheikh Abu al-Hasan ‘Ali as-Sanhaji ad-Dawwar
d. 940/941 AH
Sidi Abu al-Hasan Ali ibn Abd ar-Rahman as-Sanhaji al-Fasi ad-Dawwar was pious and held a high spiritual position (jazbah). He was known to detach himself from worldly affairs and avoid exposing his secrets (asrar), so as to not earn praises from people. It is no surprise that he is part of the 40 ‘Wali Abdal’, the ones whose ranks are raised, and whose hearts carry a strong conviction.
Sidi Ali as-Sanhaji was from the tribe of Sanhajah, near Morocco. He later migrated to Fes, Morocco. He received the title ad-Dawwar (one who always encircles) because he is always seen encircling an area while chanting ‘Allah…Allah..’( اللّٰه.. اللّٰه..).
Sidi Ali as-Sanhaji was under the tutelage of al-Imam Sidi Abu Ishaq Ibrahim az-Zarhuni al-Fahham to perfect his spirituality. He also had a student who inherited his spiritual state (ahwal) and secrets (asrar), namely al-Imam Sidi Abdul Rahman al-Majdhub.
During the Marinid dynasty, he was gifted a large sum of wealth and clothing from the Sultan. All of which he donated without keeping any for himself.
Among his miracles (karamah) was the ability for kashaf– an uncovering of veil that allows one to see matters unknown to others. Sidi Ali as-Sanhaji was able to read the whispers of one’s hearts. However, just as any other Wali of Allah, he used this ability to share what is good and hid the flaws.
It was narrated that he once sat in front of the door of Masjid al-Qarawiyyin, eating a cucumber, whilst the Subuh congregation was being held. A man passed by and thought to himself “Why is he eating a cucumber while others are praying in congregation?” This man then joined the prayer, with his mind wondering about food that will be sold at the market. Sidi Ali as-Sanhaji then called him afterwards and reminded him “eating a cucumber is better than the prayer of a donkey (the prayer that lacks presence or hudur)”
Sidi as-Sanhaji passed on at around 940/941H. He rests outside of Bab al-Futuh in Fes and his burial was attended by the Sultan, pious scholars and a large number of people. ☪︎
Sources:
- Tengku Ahmad Saufie Tg Abdul Rahman, An-Nafahat Ar-Rabbaniyyah Al-’Aliyyah (pada manaqib as-Sadah al-Hashimiyyah al-’Alawiyyah ad-Darqawiyyah ash-Shadhiliyyah), Pertubuhan Dakwah & Kebajikan Ad-Dur Al-Mukhtar, 2019.
- https://www.britannica.com/topic/Malamatiyah
- https://uninus.ac.id/wali-abdal-dalam-kajian-tasawuf/
Sheikh Abu Muhammad ‘Abd Ar-Rahman al-Majdhub al-Faraji
976 AH
Al-‘arif al-Kabir al-Wasil, al-Wali al-Kamil, Sidi ‘Abdul Rahman al-Majdhub is a famous wali from Maghribi. He possessed great spiritual states (ahwal) and miracles (karamah).
His full name is al-‘arif billah Sidi Abu Muhammad ‘Abdul Rahman Ibn ‘Iyad Ibn Ya’qub Ibn Salamah as-Sanhaji al-Faraji. He was born in Ramadhan around 909H at Armuz, Morocco. In 917H, he moved with his family to the outskirts of Meknes, Morocco. He grew up in a good and pious environment. His father, Sidi Iyad was a murid to the great wali al-‘arif billah Sidi Ibrahim al-Fahham.
Sidi ‘Abdul Rahman started his learning journey with the ulama in Meknes. He then moved to Fez, Morocco to study with the ulama residing there. He developed a special interest for learning tasawwuf as he was greatly impacted by his Sufi upbringing. He met his mursyid, al-Imam Ash-Shaykh Sidi ‘Ali Ibn Ahmad as-Sanhaji ad-Dawwar in Fez. He took the thoriqah ash-Shadhiliyyah az-Zarruqiyyah al-Mulamatiyyah through Sidi Ali. He also took thoriqah al-Jazuliyyah from ash-Shaykh Abu Hafs Umar al-Khattab.
Apart from tasawwuf, he learned other Islamic knowledge from other ulama in Fez such as ash-Shaykh Abi ‘Uthman Sa’id Ibn Abi Bakr, ash-Shaykh Abi ar-Rawayyin, Abi al-Abbas Ahmad Ibn ‘Abd al-Wahid ash-Shabih ash-Sharif al-Hasani, Shaykh Abi Muhammad ‘Abd al-Haq az-Zaliji, ash-Shaykh Abi Zakaria Yahya Ibn ‘Illal al-‘Umar and ash-Shaykh Abi ‘Adillah Muhammad Ji’ran as Sufyani.
Sidi ‘Abdul Rahman al-Majdhub had numerous students (murid) who became spiritual guides (mursyid). Amongst them were Imam Abu al-Mahasin Yusuf al-Fasi and al-Imam ‘Abdul Rahman Ibn Rawhi al-Jabali. His guidance emphasised on sincerity and mahabbah to Allah. He also wrote a collection of poems encapsulated in a Diwan.
Sidi Abu Muhammad ‘Abdul Rahman al-Majdhub passed away on a Thursday evening, on Eid-ul Adha, 976H. His maqam lies on Mountain Zarhun in Meknes, near to Bab Sidi ‘Isa and maqam Mawla Isma’il al-‘Alawi. ☪︎
Sources:
- Tengku Ahmad Saufie Tg Abdul Rahman, An-Nafahat Ar-Rabbaniyyah Al-’Aliyyah (pada manaqib as-Sadah al-Hashimiyyah al-’Alawiyyah ad-Darqawiyyah ash-Shadhiliyyah), Pertubuhan Dakwah & Kebajikan Ad-Dur Al-Mukhtar, 2019.
Sheikh Abu Mahasin Yusuf al-Fasi al-Qasri
937/938 - 1013 AH
Sheikh Abu al-Mahasin Yusuf al-Fasi al-Qasri was born in Al-Qasr Al-Kabir, Morocco, in the year 938 or 937 AH. He spent his early adolescence and was educated there before travelling to Fes to study under many renowned Sheikhs such as Ibn Jallal Al-Tilimsani and Abdul Abbas Al-Manjur. They spoke well of Sidi Yusuf and would express their pride in him. One of his teachers would say, “No equal to him is to be found, even if one were to look everywhere one could look”.
He returned to Al-Qasr and held study circles for many sciences which many people, both elites and masses, were very eager to attend and benefit from. Many students completed their education under him, and he produced countless sheikhs.
He remained in Al-Qasr for around eleven years before moving to Fes on 18th Rabiul Awwal 988 AH. He settled in the Al-Makhfiyya neighbourhood where he later built his zawiya. He became renowned and many people from all sectors of society gathered around him. Politicians, ministers and other worldly figures also allied with him and served him. His states of knowledge were obvious and undeniable, and his stations were too exalted to be described or expressed. Sheikh Sidi Muhammad b. Abdullah used to praise him by saying, “The last of the sheikhs in the Maghreb is Sidi Yusuf”.
He passed away in Fes on the eve of 18th Rabiul Awwal in the year 1013 AH, at the age of 75 or 76. When he passed away, it was said that everyone present saw a white light shine out from his blessed body. He was buried the next morning outside the Al-Andalus Mosque. His burial plot today is covered by a courtyard which also contains the graves of several of his children and descendants.☪︎
Source:
- Al-Kuhin, Muhammad Qasim. Tabaqat Al-Shadhiliyyah Al-Kubra Biographies of Prominent Shadhilis. Translated by Ahmad Ali Al-Adani, First, Visions of Reality Books, 2016.
- Bio: Sh. Ahmad ibn ‘Uqbah al-Hadrami – Damas Cultural Society (nur.nu)/
- Al-Kuhin, Muhammad Qasim. Tabaqat Al-Shadhiliyyah Al-Kubra Biographies of Prominent Shadhilis. Translated by Ahmad Ali Al-Adani, First, Visions of Reality Books, 2016.
Sheikh Abu Muhammad ‘Abd ar-Rahman al-Fasi al-Qasri
972 - 1036 AH
Sheikh Abu Muhammad ‘Abd ar-Rahman al-Fasi al-Qasri was born in Morocco, in the month of Muharram 972AH. He was the younger brother of Al-Imam Sidi Abi al-Mahasin Yusuf al-Fasi who was responsible for looking after and educating him after their father’s passing. He was sent to Fez in the year 986AH (approximately 14 years old) and continued his education from renowned scholars during that time such as Syakh Muhammad ibn Qasim al-Qassar.
He took the journey of tariqa through his brother. After his brother’s death, he became the successor and continued to spread Tariqah ash-Shadhiliyyah in the city of Fez, Morocco.
In 1027 Hijriyah, he opened a Zawiyah next to his home. Many came to reap the benefits of his knowledge. He taught from a wide range of Islamic sciences, including Hadith. Among his renowned students were ash-Shaykh Ahmad Ibn Ali Ibn Muhammad al-Busa’idi and ash-Shaykh Muhammad al-Arabi Ibn Yusuf al-Fasi.
He was a person who was known for his asceticism and whose heart is not dependent on worldly causes. In addition, he was an imam who mastered various branches of knowledge such as Nahu, Arabic language, Fiqh, Hadith, Aqidah, Mantiq, Al-Bayan, and many others.
He passed away at the approximate age of 64 years old, on the night of 27 Rabiulawwal in the year 1036 Hijriyah. He was buried near the maqam of his brother, Sidi Abi al-Mahasin Radhiyallahu anhuma.☪︎
Sources:
- Tengku Ahmad Saufie Tg Abdul Rahman, An-Nafahat Ar-Rabbaniyyah Al-’Aliyyah (pada manaqib as-Sadah al-Hashimiyyah al-’Alawiyyah ad-Darqawiyyah ash-Shadhiliyyah), Pertubuhan Dakwah & Kebajikan Ad-Dur Al-Mukhtar, 2019.
Sheikh Muhammad Ibn ‘Abd Allah Ma’an al-Andalusi al-Fasi
978 - 1062 AH
Known as Sheikh Muhammad b. Abdallah b. Ma’an al-Andalusi, he is a great wali. He is known to be a man of true faith with perfect knowledge of The Creator and a true inheritor of the Prophet Muhammad s.a.w.
Born in the year 978 AH and raised in an environment of piety & care, his lineage can be traced back to the descendants of Hasan Idris through Muhammad b. al-Qasim b. Idris. Under the guidance of Sheikh Sidi Al-Hasan b. Muhammad al-Darqawi, he was able to recite the Quran in the two narrations of Nafi, that is Warsh & Qalun. He underwent his spiritual training through Sheikh Sidi Yusuf Al-Fasi. During one of his stays with his Shaykh, he guided many followers to the path of Allah. Over time, Allah revived the land and its people with abundance of blessings. Even when Sheikh Muhammad was ill, he would still be in a consistent state of performing his regular litanies and recitation. He was known for inspiring the phrase ‘There is no God but Allah’.
Sheikh Muhammad b. Abdallah returned to his Creator on Sunday the 3rd of 1062 AH. His tomb is situated at the top of the Matrah al-Janna graveyard. Till today there are many visitors who visit his shrine to seek blessings. May Allah be pleased with him and benefit us through him, Ameen. ☪︎
Sources:
- Al-Kuhin, Muhammad Qasim. Tabaqat Al-Shadhiliyyah Al-Kubra Biographies of Prominent Shadhilis. Translated by Ahmad Ali Al-Adani, First, Visions of Reality Books, 2016.
- http://privat.bahnhof.se/wb042294/Texter/bionotes/bio_m_fasi.html
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L2pU83XGL8Q/
Sheikh Abu Fadl Qasim Ibn al-Haj Qasim al-Khasasi
1001 -1083 AH
The gnostic of the Shadzili Darqawi order, Sheikh Abu al-Fadl Qasim Ibn al-Haj Qasim al-Khasasi al-Andalusi al-Fasi was born on Sunday 1001H, in Fez, Morocco. He was solely raised by his mother as his father had passed on before he was born. He and his predecessors resided in a city on a beach near the sea, referred to as ‘Khasaasa’. There, they were renowned for their stations of Wilayat.
One day when Sheikh Qasim al-Khasasi was overcome with sentiments of true repentance, he unintendedly visited the grave of Sheikh Abi al-Mahasin Yusuf al-Fasi. While not knowing who was buried in the grave, he made a tawassul supplication, to be gathered with a teacher whom he can serve, truly for Allah. Allah granted his supplication and he was met with 3 teachers: the first being Sheikh Mubarak Ibn Ubabu al-Kush, followed by Sheikh Abdul Rahman al-Fasi. Upon the sheikh’s demise, he was taken under the guidance and tarbiyyah of Sheikh Muhammad Ibn Abdillah Ma’an al-Andalusi for 20 years, before inheriting from him.
Sheikh Qasim al-Khasasi experienced strong spiritual states, was firm in matters of the Deen, embodied the Sunnah and expressed great love for the Prophet’s family. He owned few possessions and was particularly scrupulous. He would only eat from the fruits of his own labour and engaged in trade in his own provisional shop. He would not accept anything from anyone, except from his teacher.
The sheikh passed away on Sunday night, 19 Ramadhan 1083H. He was one of the Seba’atu Rijaal (Seven Saints of Fez) who have left a significant imprint in Fez. He was buried amidst them, in the cemetery of Bab al-Futuh, with his last teacher’s grave in front of him. His grave is known until today and is visited by many who seek blessings from the awliya’. ☪︎
Sources:
- Tengku Ahmad Saufie Tg Abdul Rahman, An-Nafahat Ar-Rabbaniyyah Al-’Aliyyah (pada manaqib as-Sadah al-Hashimiyyah al-’Alawiyyah ad-Darqawiyyah ash-Shadhiliyyah), Pertubuhan Dakwah & Kebajikan Ad-Dur Al-Mukhtar, 2019.
- https://sacredfootsteps.com/2020/05/12/visting-bab-al-fatuh-garden-of-the-saints-morocco/
- https://fezgardenofthesaints.wordpress.com/2013/08/31/qaasim-al-khasaasi/
Sheikh Abu al-‘Abbas Ahmad Ibn Muhammad al-Fasi
1042 - 1120 AH
Born in 1042 AH, Sheikh Abu al-‘Abbas Ahmad Ibn Muhammad al-Fasi was a renowned Saint of Allah (Wali) who inherited the spirituality of the awliyah’ (Saints) before him.
He had taken the tariqah of his father, Sidi Muhammad Ibn Abdallah Ma’an Al-Fasi, until his passing. Following this, he then followed the tariqah under the tutelage of his father’s student, Ash-Sheikh al-Imam Sidi Qasim al-Khasasi. He faithfully followed his teacher from 1065 to 1083 AH and provided service to his teacher wholeheartedly, such that it was said no one could render such service as he did. His trustworthiness in his service towards his teacher was so praiseworthy that his teacher attested to and witnessed the exemplary nature he exuded. His teacher then declared that he would be his next spiritual heir. The sheikh was known to have said, “I am your servant” and the teacher would then say “Come to me and take your secrets from me”. After the passing of his teacher, he sought the companionship of Sidi Abi Al-‘Abbas Ahmad Ibn Muhammad al-Yamani by taking the tariqah Al-Qadiriyyah from him.
After inheriting the secrets and spirituality of his teacher and father, he led the zawiyah of his father by giving guidance in the journey towards Allah to his students. The fruit of his nurturing gave rise to many scholars who inherited his spirituality. These included Sidi ‘Abdil Salam Ibn a-Tayyib Al-Qadiri al-Hasani and Sidi Muhammad Al-‘Arabi from Sadah Al-Qadiriyyun, not forgetting his own children who also became pious scholars. Under his guidance, many individuals, regardless of academic backgrounds and status, including the sultan of that era, highly respected him and thereby sought advice, opinions, and prayers from him.
Sheikh Abu al-‘Abbas Ahmad Ibn Muhammad al-Fasi passed away in 1120 AH. His passing shocked the people of the Maghrib, and he was buried close to his father.☪︎
Source:
- Tengku Ahmad Saufie Tg Abdul Rahman, An-Nafahat Ar-Rabbaniyyah Al-’Aliyyah (pada manaqib as-Sadah al-Hashimiyyah al-’Alawiyyah ad-Darqawiyyah ash-Shadhiliyyah), Pertubuhan Dakwah & Kebajikan Ad-Dur Al-Mukhtar, 2019..
Sheikh Abu Hamid Muhammad al-‘Arabi Ibn Ahmad al-Fasi
1079 - 1171 AH
Sheikh Abu Hamid Muhammad al-‘Arabi Ibn Ahmad al-Fasi (1079-1171H) was born into the pious family of al-’Abdalawiyah in al-Muwahadah. He was brought up by his father, Sheikh al-Arif Abi al-Abbas Ahmad who embodied Sufism, and has much reverence for knowledge and adhkar. It was then that he was moulded with great character and discipline.
He was known to rarely leave the house or his Zawiyah, Zawiyah al-‘Abdalawiyah, yet is able to fulfil the needs of the community. He is also seen silent except in uttering goodness.
Apart from inheriting the secrets of Tariqah ash-Shadiliyyah from his father, he later studied under the tutelage of al-Imam ash-Shaykh Sidi Ahmad Ibn Muhammad al-Yamani to learn about Tariqah al-Qadiriyyah. As such, he was quoted to be the merging of two seas- Syadili and Qadiri).
Among the people benefitting from his vast knowledge include Sidi Abu Muhammad Abdullah Ibn Muhammad al-Arabi, Sidi Abu Abdillah Amzaj, Sidi Abu Abdillah al-Bu’isami and al-’arif billahSidi Abu Hasan Ali al-Jamal and many more.
He passed on in the year 1171H and was attended by a large number including scholars and governors of Fez. He was buried nearby his father and grandfather, and is often visited by God’s lovers and those who intend to seek blessings through him. ☪︎
Sources:
- -https://midad.com/scholar/50470/محمد-العربي-الفاسي
- -https://www.marefa.org/محمد_العربي_بن_أحمد_بن_عبد_الله_معن_الأندلسي
- Tengku Ahmad Saufie Tg Abdul Rahman, An-Nafahat Ar-Rabbaniyyah Al-’Aliyyah (pada manaqib as-Sadah al-Hashimiyyah al-’Alawiyyah ad-Darqawiyyah ash-Shadhiliyyah), Pertubuhan Dakwah & Kebajikan Ad-Dur Al-Mukhtar, 2019.
Sheikh Abu Hasan ‘Ali al-Jamal al-‘Imrani al-Hasani
d. 1193/1194 AH
Sheikh Abu Hasan ‘Ali al-Jamal was a great Gnostic from Fes, Morocco. His kunya, “al-Jamal” (the camel) is from an anecdote wherein he was seen moving a camel from the middle of the road to the side. Those that saw him remarked: “He is indeed the camel!”
During his life, he studied from Sheikh Moulay At Tayyib al Ouzzani before he later returned to Fes where he built his zawiya. His most significant teacher was Sidi al-’Arabi ibn Ahmad ibn Abdullah. He accompanied and was at the service of Sidi al-’Arabi for a period of sixteen years.
He was the teacher of Moulay Muhammad al-’Arabi al-Darqawi from who the Shadhiliyyah–Darqawiyyah Tariqa takes its tradition. His teachings are exhibited in the letters of Moulay Muhammad al-Arabi to his pupils, which have been translated and made into a book called The Darqawi Way. Sheikh Abu Hasan ‘Ali al-Jamal was said to have held the station of Ghawth for over thirty years by the time Moulay Muhammad al-Arabi met him.
He was said to often see the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in his sleep and in a wakeful state. About this, he said: “When a thought of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ would come to my mind, I would find him and his ten noble and righteous companions present before me, in the sensory and not just in the conceptual, and we would speak with them and we would take knowledge and works from the source of all knowledge and works ﷺ.”
He passed away in Fes on the night of 29th of Rabiul Awwal, in the year 1193 AH or 1194 AH. He was 105 or 106 years old. He was buried in his zawiya. A tomb was built for him and next to him lie some of his companions. ☪︎
Sources:
Sheikh Abu al-Ma’ali Muhammad al-‘Arabi as-Darqawi
d. 1235 AH
Sheikh Abu al-Ma’ali Muhammad al-‘Arabi ad-Darqawi (d. 1235AH/1819)1 is a Moroccon Sufi leader who initiated the Darqawiyyan branch of the Shadhiliyya tariqah. He was born on 1159AH/1745 in the mountains west of Fez, Morocco into the Banu Zarwal tribe. He is a Hasani sharif. The name ad-Darqawi came from his pious ancestor, Imam Abu ‘Abdullah Sidi Muhammad ibn Yusuf who was also named Abu Darqa (great shield).
Sheikh al-‘Arabi’s youth was occupied with reciting the Qur’an and visiting the maqam of righteous people. As a child, he visited Sidi at-Tayyib ibn Moulay Muhammad Buzzan 7 times. On one of the visits, Sidi at-Tayyib prayed for him. Thereafter, Sheikh al-‘Arabi noted that he was bestowed with barakah and good memorisation of the Qur’an.
As Sheikh al-‘Arabi grew older, he searched for a murabbi to guide him. He often visited Moulay Idris ibn Idris’s maqam and recited the Qur’an with the hope of finding a spiritual guide. When he had completed the Qur’an 60 times, he wept until his eyes became red. Another Sharif saw him and introduced him to Sheikh Abu’l-Hasan Sidi ‘Ali ibn ‘Abdur-Rahman al-‘Amrani. Thereupon, Sheikh al-‘Arabi became Sidi ‘Ali’s murid. Sheikh used to visit Sidi ‘Ali every day at his zawiya in Fes, Morocco.
After 2 years of tutelage, Sheikh al-‘Arabi returned to his hometown. He opened two zawiya at Jabbal az-Zabib. It is a 2-day trip from Fes, Morocco. It was narrated from Abu’l-‘Abbas Sidi Ahmad ibn Muhammad az-Zagari al-Hasani (who heard from Abu Hafs Sidi al-Hajj ‘Umar ibn Suda al-Mari), that Sheikh al-‘Arabi trained approximately 40,000 mursyids.
Sheikh al-‘Arabi passed away at his zawiya. He was buried at his other zawiya, Bu Barih in the region of Tamsanah in Cheoun. His teachings are encapsulated in “Letters of Mawlay al-Arabi ad-Darqawi”. ☪︎
Sources:
- Ad-Darqawi M. The Letters of Shaykh Mawlay al-‘Arabi ad-Darqawi [Internet]. Diwan Press ; 1979 [cited 2023]. Available from: https://ia600506.us.archive.org/18/items/TheDarqawiWay/The-Darqawi-Way.pdf/
- Al-Kuhin, Muhammad Qasim. Tabaqat Al-Shadhiliyyah Al-Kubra Biographies of Prominent Shadhilis. Translated by Ahmad Ali Al-Adani, First, Visions of Reality Books, 2016.
Sheikh Muhammad al-Basha Al-Wakili al-Hasani al-Idrisi
1262 AH
Sheikh Muhammad al-Basha al-Wakili al-Hasani al-Idrisi is known as Sidi Muhammad al-Basha. Sidi Muhammad al-Basha was a student who received spiritual and mystical teachings from Sheikh Muhammad al-’Arabi ad-Darqawi and inherited the Tariqah and spirituality of his teacher.
His descendants came from the outskirts of the city of Zarhun in Morocco. Zarhun is the city of Mawlay Idris (d. 157 Hijrah). The Idrisis are scions of Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. who settled in Morocco and nearby areas. They are from the progeny of Imam al-Hasan bin Ali bin Abu Talib, may Allah have mercy on both of them. According to some historical records, he was born in the year 1197 Hijri, but the truth could not be confirmed.
Sidi Muhammad Al-Basha studied the Al-Qur’an and memorized it since childhood. He even studied hadith, fiqh, Arabic and more. He was often with his father to attend any majlis zikir and knowledge.
Sidi Muhammad al-Basha has taken spiritual training from Al-Arif Billah Al-Qutb Mawlay Sidi Al-Arabi Ad-Darqawi and had many suhbah with him. After his teacher passed away, he took the mandate to continue leading people through tarbiyyah to worship Allah through the mashrab of his teacher.
Under his tutelage, many successfully achieved the ultimate goal, including one of his student, Sheikh Al-Masyaikh Sidi Muhammad Qaddur Al-Wakili Al-Kurkuri Al-Hasani.
Sheikh Muhammad al-Basha al-Wakili al-Hasani al-Idrisi passed away in 1262 Hijriyah. ☪︎
Source:
- Tengku Ahmad Saufie Tg Abdul Rahman, An-Nafahat Ar-Rabbaniyyah Al-’Aliyyah (pada manaqib as-Sadah al-Hashimiyyah al-’Alawiyyah ad-Darqawiyyah ash-Shadhiliyyah), Pertubuhan Dakwah & Kebajikan Ad-Dur Al-Mukhtar, 2019..
- https://damas.nur.nu/8277/places/zarhun-the-city-of-mawlay-idris
- https://occidentalexile.wordpress.com/2010/05/18/moulay-al-arbi-darqawi-d-12391823/
Sheikh Abu al-Mawahib Muhammad Ibn Qaddur al-Wakili
-
Sheikh Abu al-Mawahib Muhammad Ibn Qaddur al-Wakili was a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad, may God bless him and grant him peace, from the family of Wukîl. His grave can be found in Mount Karkar, under a great dome, with a sweet spring nearby. Inside the dome, his rosary with 1000 beads and giant lance, with which he hunted wild beasts, are still preserved.
During his youth, he studied reading and writing on Mount Qal‘iyya in Nador with a scholar. His teacher instructed him to close his eyes and invoke the Divine Name after finishing each portion of the Qur’an. One day, he fell unconscious while invoking the Divine Name, and his teacher fled, believing him to be dead. He wandered into Algeria and met a man of God who directed him to Muhammad b. ‘Abd al-Qâdir al-Bâsha who resides in the region of al-Khurûb.’ The boy headed off earnestly to meet the Master and dedicate his services to him.
He remained in the service of his master until he was told to go to his homeland to spread the teachings of the path. ‘Be honourable and generous but also be on guard against your fellow family members, who will be envious.’ And so it happened that his family plotted to kill him. Whilst he was far off from the village on a mountain side, a man appeared before him bearing a knife, wanting to kill him. Sîdî bin Qaddûr began to admonish him and told him to fear God, but it was to no avail, so Sîdî bin Qaddûr was forced to shoot him with his rifle, killing him. Immediately, he ran home, gathered his family and fled with them to a mountain called ‘the Spring of Zûrâ’. There he dug two caves in the earth, one for his family and one for his students. There he lived with his family and disciples.
His reputation soon spread far and wide amongst the neighbouring tribes. One day a tribe called Banî Bûhyâ, who had previously pledged allegiance to him, came to visit him. They took him to their homeland at night on Mount Karkar. He ordered them to leave him there, and it was on this mountain that his zâwiya was built. It was also here that he issued people the invocation of the Divine Name and spread his teachings until he finally passed away. ☪︎
Sources:
Shaykh Abu Abdullah Muhammad ibn al-Habib al-Buzidi
1239 – 1327 AH
Shaykh Abu Abdullah Muhammad Ibn al-Habib al-Buzidi al-Hasani, also known as Sidi Muhammad al-Buzidi, was a renowned Islamic scholar and a gnostic of Allah. He was born in the city of Mustaghanim, Algeria, in 1239H and moved to different cities throughout his life. He was known to conduct himself with humility and fervently conducted service (khidmah) to his family and teachers.
He first learnt the basics of Islamic knowledge from his father, Sidi al-Habib, in his hometown, before travelling to other parts of Algeria in the pursuit of Quranic knowledge, Fiqh and Hadith. Of note, Sidi Muhammad al-Buzidi travelled to Maghribi to meet one of his teachers, ash-Shaykh Sidi Muhammad Ibn Qaddur al-Wakili. Under his teacher’s guidance, Allah swt. bestowed him with a great understanding and he became one of the closest student to his teacher.
Nearing his demise, his teacher kept repeating that Sidi Muhammad al-Buzidi had taken “al-qirbah” (a tool made of cow’s leather to store water or milk), to signify that he had been bestowed the responsibility to take over as the next spiritual guide. Upon the teacher’s demise, Shaykh al-Buzidi assumed the position of a spiritual guide (Murshid) in Karkar. He was wise in administering the Shadzili order such that streams of students flocked to learn from him.
Towards the end of his life, Sidi Muhammad al-Buzidi faced difficulties speaking and moving certain parts of his body and he passed away on the 10th of Syawal 1327H, coinciding with 25th October 1909. His maqam is located at his Zawiyah and was visited especially by students of Tariqah Shadhiliyyah ad-Darqawiyah. May Allah shower him with His Mercy and sanctify his secrets.☪︎
Sources:
- Tengku Ahmad Saufie Tg Abdul Rahman, An-Nafahat Ar-Rabbaniyyah Al-’Aliyyah (pada manaqib as-Sadah al-Hashimiyyah al-’Alawiyyah ad-Darqawiyyah ash-Shadhiliyyah), Pertubuhan Dakwah & Kebajikan Ad-Dur Al-Mukhtar, 2019.
Shaykh Muhammad ibn Yallis al-Tilimsani
1271 - 1345 AH
Shaykh Muhammad ibn Yallis, a native of Tlemcen (Algeria) born in 1271 AH/1855, was the Shaykh of Shaykh Muhammad al-Hashimi al-Tilimsani. The Shaykh was an early orphan, but that did not hinder him from receiving education and achieving his spiritual aspirations. In his youth, the Shaykh studied with some of the leading shuyukh of his time including Imam Abu Abdullah Muhammad al-Sanusi, Shaykh Ahmad ibn Muhammad al-Dukkali, Shaykh Ibn Sahman, and Shaykh Ahmad al-Harsharwi.
Being appointed as Muqaddam by Shaykh Muhammad ibn Azza in Tlemcen, the Shaykh represented the Tariqah Darqawiyah in his city. This is believed to have led to the proliferation of the Tariqah Darqawiyah in surrounding areas. Shortly after the death of Shaykh Muhammad ibn Azza, the Shaykh met Shaykh Muhammad Ibn al-Habib al-Buzidi and became his disciple, who in turn appointed him as the muqaddam of Tlemcen and then gave him authorisation to train his disciples.
Accompanied by his son, Shaykh Ahmad, and his student, Shaykh Muhammad al-Hashimi, Shaykh Muhammad ibn Yallis left Algeria to immigrate to Syria in 1329 AH/1909. This preference to emigrate from Algeria, a preference held by many pious Algerians at that time, is best seen as a bid to avoid the French colonists, who prohibited the Algerian people from attending circles of knowledge. By emigrating, the Shaykh, his son, and his student were also able to escape the possible drafting of Algerian Muslims into the French Army in preparation for the conquest of Morocco.
The Shaykh was 80 years old when he fought against the French when they occupied Syria in 1338 AH/1920. This resulted in his imprisonment which was made brief due to the intercession of Shaykh Muhammad al-Makki al-Kettani and Shaykh Badr al-Din al-Hasani with the French occupiers.
The Shaykh continued teaching in Damascus throughout the rest of his life. He appointed his brother, Shaykh Ahmad, as his Khalifa, and his student, Shaykh Muhammad al-Hashimi, as the next Khalifa. The Diwan that the Shaykh penned honouring the beauty of Layla, the Divine Presence, can still be heard in Damascus during the dhikr sessions up to this day, even if he may have returned to Allah’s side on Tuesday, December 26, 1927/1346 AH. The Shaykh was buried in the graveyard of Bab al-Saghir. A mosque and a zawiyya were built in Wahran in his name. May Allah have mercy on him and be well pleased with him. ☪︎
Sources:
- Al-Kuhin, Muhammad Qasim. Tabaqat Al-Shadhiliyyah Al-Kubra Biographies of Prominent Shadhilis. Translated by Ahmad Ali Al-Adani, First, Visions of Reality Books, 2016.
- Tarikh`Ulema Dimashq 14th century, Vol 1 p. 427 ff biography written by Ustadh Riad al-Malih as cited in “Bio: Sh. Muhammad Ibn Yallis – Damas Cultural Society.” Bio: Sh. Muhammad Ibn Yallis – Damas Cultural Society, -damas.nur.nu/8876/bionotes/bio-sh-muhammad-ibn-yallis?target=english.
- Michon, J. L. “Ibn Yallas &Mdash; Brill.” Ibn Yallas &Mdash; Brill, 24 Apr. 2012, -referenceworks.brillonline.com/entries/encyclopaedia-of-islam-2/ibn-yallas-SIM_3410?lang=fr.
- “محمد بن يلس.” محمد بن يلس, 23 Dec. 2017, . -alawi1934-ar.blogspot.com/2017/12/blog-post_72.html(Translated using Google Translate)
Shaykh Ahmad Ibn Mustafa al-‘Alawi al-Jaza’iri al-Hasani
1869 - 1934 CE
Shaykh Ahmad Ibn Mustafa al-‘Alawi was born in 1869 in Mostaganem, Algeria. His coming was announced as glad tidings to his parents when before his birth, his mother dreamt of Rasulullah s.a.w. who was smiling while handing her a flower of the genus Narcissus. His parents were pious, and showered him with love and care. Since young, his father taught the Syakh to recite the al-Quran, and often brought him along to circles of knowledge and zikir until the Shaykh grew to love and long to attend these circles.
The Shaykh took tarbiyyah from his teacher, the renowned Sidi Muhammad Al-Buzidi in the school of ash-Shadhiliyyah ad-Darqawiyyah, and dedicated himself to khidmah alongside his teacher for 15 years in Morocco. Upon the passing away of his teacher, he returned to Algeria and opened his own Zawiyah. The Shaykh mastery in the field of tasawwuf led his school of tarbiyyah to be known as ash-Shadhiliyyah al-Darqawiyyah al-‘Alawiyyah. The Shaykh was an exceptional teacher and spiritual guide. During his lifetime, it is estimated that there were 53 zawiyahs of ash-Shadhiliyyah al-Darqawiyyah al-‘Alawiyyah spanning Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia up to France, Holland and Britain.
The Shaykh drew his last breath in 1934 in Mostaganem. The Shaykh left a deep impression in people’s hearts and his maqam, which is situated in his Zawiyah, is continuously visited until today. ☪︎
Sources:
- Tengku Ahmad Saufie Tg Abdul Rahman, An-Nafahat Ar-Rabbaniyyah Al-’Aliyyah (pada manaqib as-Sadah al-Hashimiyyah al-’Alawiyyah ad-Darqawiyyah ash-Shadhiliyyah), Pertubuhan Dakwah & Kebajikan Ad-Dur Al-Mukhtar, 2019.
Shaykh Muhammad al-Hashimi al-Tilimsani
1298 AH/1881 – 1380AH/1961
The Shaykh was born on 22nd of Shawwal 1298 AH, in Tilimsan, one of the main cities in Algeria. His lineage can be traced back to Sayyidina al-Hasan ibn ‘Ali radhiallahu ‘anhu.
The Shaykh kept the company of scholars, eager to increase in knowledge. He then emigrated with his teacher, Shaykh Muhammad ibn Yallis to Syria, to escape the French colonisers which forbade the attending of circles of knowledge. He briefly stayed in Turkey for two years, before he was reunited with Shaykh Muhammad ibn Yallis in Damascus.
Shaykh Muhammad al-Hashimi was known and endeared to the hearts of many of his time, for his humility, generosity, forbearance and his strive to embody the traits of our Prophet s.a.w. He was deeply concerned with affairs of Muslims during his time and involved himself in teaching, advising scholars, keeping abreast on current affairs that affect Muslims and promptly joined the resistance against colonialism despite his frailty and old age.☪︎
Source:
- Tengku Ahmad Saufie Tg Abdul Rahman, An-Nafahat Ar-Rabbaniyyah Al-’Aliyyah (pada manaqib as-Sadah al-Hashimiyyah al-’Alawiyyah ad-Darqawiyyah ash-Shadhiliyyah), Pertubuhan Dakwah & Kebajikan Ad-Dur Al-Mukhtar, 2019..
- The Life of Sidi Shaykh Muhammad Al-Hashimi Al-Tilmisani
Shaykh Abdul Qadir Isa Al-Halabi
1338AH/1920 – 1411 AH/1991
Born in the year 1338 Hijri, in the city of Aleppo, the Shaykh’s lineage can be traced to the grandson of Prophet s.a.w, Sayyidina al-Husayn ibn ‘Ali radhiallahu ‘anhu.
During his youth, the Shaykh was involved in religious affairs through acquaintances with men of Sufism, and also worldly affairs such as career and trade. However, he continued to feel dissatisfied and decided to dedicate himself to pursuit of sacred knowledge.
He spent time with many scholars, and entered the way of spiritual wayfaring under the tutelage of Shaykh Hasan Al-Hasani. While under Shaykh Hasan’s tutelage, the Shaykh continued to seek for one who could show him the realities of Sufism. He met Shaykh Al-Hashimi al-Tilimsani and saw in him what he was looking for. Shaykh Al-Hashimi took the Shaykh under his wing, and eventually gave him permission to train and guide spiritual aspirants.
Shaykh Abdul Qadir Isa had a magnetic personality, which attracted many to his gatherings, including youths in Aleppo. The Shaykh’s order and popularity spread far and wide, to all corners of Syria including neighbouring countries such as Jordan, Turkey, Lebanon and Iraq. His personality, truthfulness and sincerity caused his followers to come from every social class. His book Realities of Sufism, became one of the best books which clearly express and capture the reality of the spiritual path.
In the year 1412 AH (1991), the Shaykh fell very ill while on a visit in Turkey. He passed away on 12th of Rabi’ulakhir (October 26), and his final resting place is at Eyüp, near the noble companion, Abu Ayub Al-Ansari radhiallahu ‘anhu.☪︎
Sources:
- Shaykh Abdul Qadir Isa. Realities of Sufism. Sunni Publications (2009).
Shaykh Sa’d ad-Din al-Murad
1349 AH/1931 – 1435 AH/2014
A respected ulama’ of tassawuf, Shaykh Sa’d ad-Din al-Murad contributed greatly in guiding seekers of contemporary times in the journey towards Allah. Born in 1931 in Hammah, Syria, the Shaykh was born to parents whose lineage can both be traced back to the Ahlul Bayt of Rasulullah s.a.w.
The Shaykh excelled in his studies. At the age of 7, he entered Madrasah al-Ibtida’iyyah Dar al-‘Ilmi wat-Tarbiyyah to learn foundations of the religion. He then continued his studies at Madrasah asy-Sya’baniyyah, which was recognised by the University of Al-Azhar. Here, the Shaykh started his first year of studies as one of ten students, and was eventually the only student of his cohort that continued until the fourth, and last year. During his studies, the Shaykh was occasionally invited to deliver khutbah at Masjid al-‘a’ilah al-Muradiyah. He graduated in 1949, and went on to study at Ma’had al-‘Ulum ash-Shar’iyyah in Aleppo, a madrasah that was considered the Al-Azhar of Syria. During his studies here, he was already tasked with the responsibility to teach at Masjid Abu ar-Raja’ and Masjid al-Harah.
The Shaykh is known as to have a luminous heart, good akhlaq and pure thinking. He was greatly influenced by his murabbi, Shaykh Abdul Qadir ‘Isa al-Halabi whom he met while studying together at Madrasah asy-Sya’baniyyah. Following the footsteps of his murabbi, he took the tariqah of ash-Shadziliyah through Sidi Muhammad al-Hashimi.
The Shaykh travelled to al-Madinah al-Munawwarah in 1981, appointed as the khalifah of his murabbi. After residing in al-Madinah for 5 months, he moved to Jeddah upon receiving the invitation of to become the imam and Khatib of masjid al-Huda. The Shaykh continued to teach and give tarbiyah, and many followers from diverse backgrounds benefitted from him.
After a lifetime of khidmah, the Shaykh passed away on 30 May 2014 due to ill health. He is buried in the blessed al-Baqi’ in al-Madinah al-Munawwarah..☪︎
Sources:
- Tengku Ahmad Saufie Tg Abdul Rahman, An-Nafahat Ar-Rabbaniyyah Al-’Aliyyah (pada manaqib as-Sadah al-Hashimiyyah al-’Alawiyyah ad-Darqawiyyah ash-Shadhiliyyah), Pertubuhan Dakwah & Kebajikan Ad-Dur Al-Mukhtar, 2019.
Ash-Shaykh Ash-Sharif Sidi Youssef Ibn Muhyiddin Riq Al-Bakhur Al-Hasani
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Ash-Shaykh Ash-Sharif Sidi Youssef Ibn Muhyiddin Riq Al-Bakhur Al-Hasani
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Shaykhuna Sidi Youssef Al-Hasani is the spiritual father and leader of our thoriqah. He is a contemporary scholar who guides people to Allah (swt) in this modern day and age.
The Shaykh was born in Lebanon in 1948, and his lineage can be traced back to both the grandsons of our Prophet s.a.w., Sayyidina Al-Hasan and Sayyidina al-Husayn radīallahu`anhum.
The Shaykh initiated his spiritual journey during his early days at the hands of Sidi Muhammad Sa’id Al-Burhani, who was among the senior students and caliphs of the renowned Sidi Muhammad Al-Hashimi At-Tilimsani. During this period of mentorship, Ash-Shaykh was granted the good fortune of accompanying Sidi Muhammad Sa’id to meet with Sidi Muhammad Al-Hashimi shortly before the latter passed on in 1961.
The Shaykh took bay’ah with Sidi Abdul Qadir ‘Isa Al-Halabi – a close friend of Sidi Muhammad Sa’id Al-Burhani and fellow caliph of Sidi Muhammad Al-Hashimi. This took place when ash-Shaykh was furthering his religious studies at Ma’had Al-Fath Al-Islami in Damascus. Through sincere and diligent suhbah with his new master, ash-Shaykh proved to be proficient in matters of tarbiyyah and was thus granted permission by Sidi Abdul Qadir ‘Isa Al-Halabi to transmit the honourable Wiridul ‘Amm. ☪︎
Sources:
- A more detailed info into our Murabbi can be found -here
The best richness is the richness of the soul
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