The pilgrimage to the shrine of Sidi Al Hadi Ben Aissa in Meknes, Morocco, is a vibrant expression of Moroccan Sufi spirituality. It centers on the veneration of Sidi Al Hadi Ben Aissa, a 16th-century mystic and founder of the Aissawa brotherhood, whose teachings integrated Islamic orthodoxy with esoteric practices. This pilgrimage, deeply woven into the cultural and religious fabric of Morocco, illustrates the enduring vitality of Sufism in the region.
Sidi Al Hadi Ben Aissa, often referred to as Sheikh al-Kamil, established the Aissawa Sufi order during a period of significant social and religious transformation. His teachings sought to harmonize Sharia (Islamic law) with spiritual practices that emphasized direct communion with God through music, chanting, and dhikr (remembrance of God). The Aissawa brotherhood, marked by its distinctive rituals and spiritual inclusiveness, became a unifying force across diverse Moroccan communities.
The order's practices, characterized by collective rituals and a deep commitment to the saint’s legacy, have evolved over centuries while retaining their essential spiritual ethos. Followers of the Aissawa engage in devotional acts that express reverence for Sidi Al Hadi Ben Aissa and reflect their shared identity as adherents of his teachings.
The annual pilgrimage to the shrine of Sidi Al Hadi Ben Aissa coincides with the celebration of the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday, making it a significant religious occasion. Pilgrims gather from across Morocco to honor the saint, seeking blessings, healing, and spiritual renewal. This event is distinguished by its integration of sacred rituals with communal celebration.
A central feature of the pilgrimage is the Aissawa dhikr, a rhythmic and melodic form of worship designed to bring participants into a heightened state of spiritual awareness. Performed with traditional instruments such as the ghaïta (a reed instrument) and the bendir (a frame drum), the dhikr blends music, chanting, and movement to facilitate spirit.