Initiated within the framework of the activities of the annual Moussem of the Kadiria Zaouia of Essaouira, under the theme "The African expansion of Sufi brotherhoods across the Moroccan Sahara, and their role in spreading the values of peace", this meeting was an opportunity to shed light on the specificities of Moroccan Sufism, its historical influence, and its role in strengthening spiritual, cultural, and social ties between the Kingdom and sub-Saharan African countries.
Gathered within the premises of Bayt Dakira, the speakers highlighted the moderate and balanced nature of Moroccan Sufism, which advocates an Islam of the middle path, adding that this unique model has allowed Moroccan Zaouias to play a crucial role in consolidating stability and spreading spiritual values in several African countries.
The speakers also stressed that Moroccan Sufism embodies a model of moderation that has not only played a key role in the stability of the Kingdom, but also in the dissemination of Islamic values based on peace and tolerance on an international scale.
In a statement to MAP on this occasion, Hassan Lakhdach, a teacher-researcher, stressed that Moroccan Sufism, as a unique spiritual model, is distinguished by its ability to combine Fiqh and Sufi meditation, thus creating harmony between religious practice and the inner quest of the soul, which allows it to meet the spiritual needs of individuals while preserving the integrity of Islamic teachings.
For his part, Rabie Rachidi, a teacher-researcher in history, dwelt on the intellectual and spiritual heritage of Moroccan Sufism, noting that the writings and teachings of great Moroccan Sufi figures, such as Sidi Abdellah Mohammed Akensouss, have enriched an intellectual tradition of remarkable depth, which has not only shaped Islamic thought in Morocco, but has also influenced the entire Muslim world.
He also noted, in a similar statement, that the city of Essaouira, as a crossroads of cultures, has played a central role in this dynamic.
In addition to this symposium, the annual Moussem of the Kadiria Zaouia of Essaouira (December 11-13) was marked by the organisation of several activities covering spiritual, cultural, and social dimensions, as well as artistic evenings hosted by troupes from several Sufi brotherhoods of Essaouira and elsewhere.
