What is the Qadiriyya order, and who founded it?

The Qadiriyya, also known as the Qadiri order, is a Sunni Sufi order (tariqa). It was founded by Abdul Qadir Gilani, who was a Hanbali scholar from Gilan, Iran, and lived from 1077 to 1166 CE.

What are the Arabic names for the Qadiriyya order and its path?

The Arabic name for the Qadiriyya order is 'al-Qadiriyya'. The term for its specific path or order is 'al-Tariqa al-Qadiriyya', which is romanized as 'al-Tariqa al-Qadiriyya'.

When did Abdul Qadir Gilani become the leader of the madrasa he attended?

Abdul Qadir Gilani became the leader of the madrasa of Abu Saeed Mubarak Makhzoomi in 1119 CE, following the death of his teacher, Abu Saeed Mubarak Makhzoomi.

Who succeeded Abdul Qadir Gilani as the Sheikh of the Qadiriyya order?

Abdul Qadir Gilani was succeeded by his son, Abdul Razzaq, who took over as Sheikh after his father's death in 1166 CE.

How did the Qadiriyya order survive the Mongol invasion of Baghdad?

Despite the Mongolian conquest of Baghdad in 1258, the Qadiriyya order flourished and maintained its influence as a prominent Sunni Sufi order.

What is the significance of the text 'Bahjat al-Asrar fi ba'd manaqib 'Abd al-Qadir'?

This text, attributed to Nur al-Din 'Ali al-Shattanufi, is a hagiography that helped solidify the legend of Abdul Qadir Gilani, portraying him as the greatest saint within Islam and contributing to the order's expansion beyond Baghdad.

By the late 15th century, where had the Qadiriyya order spread and developed distinct sub-orders?

By the end of the 15th century, the Qadiriyya had developed distinct sub-orders and had expanded its reach to Morocco, Spain, Turkey, India, Ethiopia, Somalia, and the region of modern-day Mali.

Who is credited with establishing the Qadiriyya Sufi presence in China?

Khwaja Abdullah, a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad, is reported to have entered China in 1674 and preached Qadiri Sufism until his death in 1689. His student, Qi Jingyi Hilal al-Din, is credited with firmly rooting the order in China, with his burial place in Linxia City becoming a center for the Qadiriyya in the country.

How did Sultan Bahu contribute to the Qadiriyya's spread in India?

Sultan Bahu played a significant role in spreading the Qadiriyya teachings in India. He utilized his Punjabi couplets and over 140 other writings to disseminate the Sufi doctrine of Faqr.

What role did Sheikh Sidi Ahmad al-Bakka'i play in the Qadiriyya's expansion in North Africa?

Sheikh Sidi Ahmad al-Bakka'i, from the Kunta family, established a Qadiri Zawiya (Sufi lodge) in Walata. His family later spread across the Sahara to various regions, and his descendant, Sidi al-Mukhtar al-Kunti, further expanded the order's influence throughout Mauritania, the middle Niger region, Guinea, the Ivory Coast, Futa Toro, and Futa Jallon.

Who was Sidi al-Mukhtar al-Kunti and what was his impact on the Maliki school and the Qadiriyya?

Sidi al-Mukhtar al-Kunti (1728-1811) united the Kunta family's factions and established an extensive confederation. Under his leadership, the Maliki school of Islamic law was revitalized, and the Qadiriyya order spread widely across West Africa.

How did Usman dan Fodio popularize the Qadiri teachings in Nigeria?

Usman dan Fodio (1754-1817), a scholar and religious thinker, popularized the Qadiri teachings in Nigeria. After a vision in 1789, he believed he could work miracles and teach his own mystical litanies, which are still practiced today. He was later initiated into the Qadiriyya through visions of Abdul Qadir Gilani.

What is the primary symbol worn by members of the Qadiri order?

Members of the Qadiri order typically wear a rose in their cap, which is embroidered and often has a star in its center. This rose serves as the particular sign of the noble Qadiri order.

What is the symbolic meaning behind the rose worn by Qadiri members?

The rose symbolizes the Qadiri order's path. According to legend, when Abdul Qadir Jilani arrived in Baghdad, a Sheikh sent him a cup full of water, signifying that Baghdad was full of holy men and had no room for him. Jilani responded by placing a rose in the cup, indicating that Baghdad would find a place for him.

What do the different parts of the Qadiri rose symbol represent?

The rose symbol, often made of green cloth, has rings and circles. The first circle signifies Sharia (God's law), the second represents Tariqa (the Sufi path or order), and the third signifies Ma'rifa (knowledge of God). Together, these represent the attainment of Haqiqa (truth) through the acquisition of these three elements.

What are the two main spiritual chains (silsilas) cited for the Qadiriyya order?

Two commonly cited spiritual chains for the Qadiriyya order trace back to Prophet Muhammad. One lineage is traditionally cited through Imam Hasan Basri, while another version includes Imam Husayn and subsequent Imams before reaching figures like Ma'ruf Karkhi and Abdul Qadir Gilani.

Who clarified the lineage of the Qadiriyya silsila through Hasan al-Basri?

Moulana Fakhruddin Dehlvi R.A is cited as clarifying that the actual Qadiriyya silsila continues through Imam Hasan al-Basri, addressing historical debates about the lineage.

Who founded the Qadiri Naushahi sub-order?

The Qadiri Naushahi sub-order was established by Muhammad Naushah Qadiri, also known as Hazrat Naushah Pak, in the late 16th century in Gujrat, Pakistan.

What is the primary focus of the Qadiri Sarwari sub-order?

The Qadiri Sarwari sub-order, founded by Sultan Bahu in the 17th century, primarily focuses on the contemplation of God. It is noted for not requiring a specific dress code or lengthy exercises like seclusion.

Where is the Qadiri Sammani branch of the order found, and who helped spread it to Nigeria?

The Qadiri Sammani branch is present in Sudan and was spread to Nigeria in the 20th century by the mystic Nasiru Kabara.

What distinguishes the Qadiri Mukhtari sub-order from other Qadiriyya branches?

The Qadiri Mukhtari sub-order, led by al-Mukhtar al-Kunti in the 18th century, is highly centralized, unlike many other Qadiriyya sub-orders. Its focus includes Islamic revivalism and economic prosperity for its followers.

Who founded the Qadiriyya Harari sub-order, and where is its main shrine located?

The Qadiriyya Harari sub-order was founded by Abu Bakr bin 'Abd Allah 'Aydarus, whose shrine is located in Harar, Ethiopia. This sub-order is prevalent in Djibouti, Somaliland, Ethiopia, and Somalia.

Who founded the Qadiri Barkati sub-order, and what is its connection to the Barelvi movement?

The Qadiri Barkati sub-order was founded by Shah Barkatullah Marehrawi. His descendant, Shah Al-i Rasul Marehrawi, was the teacher of Ahmed Raza Khan Barelvi, the founder of the Barelvi movement, which adheres to multiple Sufi orders including the Qadiri.

When and by whom was the Qadiri Tekkesi sub-order founded?

The Qadiri Tekkesi sub-order was founded in 1738 by the Indian Sunni Muslim Sheikh Seyfullah Effendi Hintli in Selamsız, becoming popular among the Romani people in Turkey and spreading throughout the Balkans and Turkey.

Who is recognized as Imam al-Arus and founder of the Qadiri Arusi sub-order?

Muhammad ibn Ahmad Lebbai, reverentially known as Imam al-Arus, founded the Qadiri Arusi sub-order. He is a significant Qadiri Sheikh in Sri Lanka, known for promoting communal harmony, and his sub-order has spread to South India, the Middle East, and parts of Russia and China.

Which Qadiriyya sub-order is known for its popularity in Turkey and Iraq?

The Qadiri Halisi sub-order, founded by Abdurrahman Halis, is one of the most popular branches and is found in Turkey as well as Iraq, the region where the Qadiriyya order originated.

What is the Qadiriyya wa Naqshbandiyya?

The Qadiriyya wa Naqshbandiyya is a Sufi order that represents a synthesis of the Qadiri and Naqshbandi orders. Its spiritual lineage traces back through both Abdul Qadir Gilani and Shah Baha al-Din Naqshband, and it has a significant presence in Pakistan, India, and Indonesia.

What is At-Tariqah Al-Aliyyah Al-Qadiriyyah Al-Kasnazaniyyah?

At-Tariqah Al-Aliyyah Al-Qadiriyyah Al-Kasnazaniyyah is the largest Sufi order in Iraq and is also popular in Iran. Its headquarters are located in Sulaymaniyah, Iraq, and it is currently led by Sheikh Nehro Mohammed.

What does the symbol of a rose in the Qadiri order's cap represent according to the text?

The rose worn by members of the Qadiri order is described as the particular sign of their path. Its symbolic meaning relates to the legend of Abdul Qadir Gilani placing a rose in a cup of water sent by another Sheikh, signifying his acceptance and place in Baghdad.

What is the historical context for the Qadiriyya order's formation?

The Qadiriyya order was formed in the 12th century, founded by Abdul Qadir Gilani, a prominent Hanbali scholar and preacher who became the leader of a madrasa in Baghdad after his teacher's death.

How did the Qadiriyya order's influence spread geographically over centuries?

Following its establishment in the 12th century, the Qadiriyya order spread significantly. By the 15th century, it had reached North Africa, Spain, and parts of Asia. Later, in the 17th century, it expanded into China, and its influence continued to grow across Africa and the Indian subcontinent through various sub-orders and influential figures.

What is the spiritual significance of the chain of succession (silsila) in the Qadiriyya order?

The chain of succession, or silsila, is crucial in Sufi orders like the Qadiriyya as it links contemporary practitioners back to the Prophet Muhammad through a continuous line of spiritual transmission. This chain validates the teachings and practices of the order.

What are some of the key concepts or ideas associated with Sufism that are mentioned in relation to the Qadiriyya?

The text mentions several Sufi concepts relevant to the Qadiriyya, including Sharia (Islamic law), Tariqa (the spiritual path), Ma'rifa (knowledge of God), and Haqiqa (truth). Other related concepts include Hal (spiritual state), Dhikr (remembrance of God), and the roles of Murid (disciple) and Murshid (spiritual guide).

Who was Abdul Qadir Gilani, the founder of the Qadiriyya order?

Abdul Qadir Gilani was a Hanbali scholar and preacher born in Gilan, Iran. He became a prominent Sufi figure, leading a madrasa in Baghdad and founding the Qadiriyya order, which became one of the most widespread Sufi orders.

What is the relationship between the Qadiriyya order and Islamic law (Sharia)?

The Qadiriyya order integrates Islamic law (Sharia) into its spiritual framework. Sharia is represented as the first circle in the symbolic rose of the order, signifying its foundational importance in the path towards spiritual knowledge and truth.

What is the role of Sheikhs within the Qadiriyya order?

Sheikhs, such as Abdul Qadir Gilani and his successors, serve as spiritual leaders within the Qadiriyya order. They guide disciples, preserve the teachings, and are central figures in the spiritual chain of succession (silsila).

How did the Qadiriyya order adapt and spread across different cultures?

The Qadiriyya order demonstrated adaptability by spreading across diverse regions and cultures, from North Africa to China and the Indian subcontinent. Its various sub-orders, like the Qadiri Mukhtari focusing on revivalism or the Qadiri Sarwari emphasizing contemplation, show how the order catered to different contexts and needs.

What is the significance of the 'Zawiya' in the context of the Qadiriyya?

A Zawiya, as mentioned in relation to the Qadiriyya, is a Sufi lodge or center where members gather for spiritual activities, teaching, and community. An example is the Qadiriyya Zawiya in Tozeur, Tunisia.

What is the meaning of 'Tariqa' in relation to the Qadiriyya?

Tariqa, meaning 'path' or 'way', refers to the specific Sufi order or method of spiritual practice. The Qadiriyya is one such Tariqa, founded by Abdul Qadir Gilani, and its members follow its distinct spiritual discipline.

Which historical figures are listed in the Qadiriyya's spiritual chain of succession besides Abdul Qadir Gilani?

The spiritual chain of succession includes prominent figures from early Islamic history, such as Prophet Muhammad, Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib, Imam Hasan Basri, Imam Husayn, and other Imams, as well as key Sufi mystics like Ma'ruf Karkhi, Sari al-Saqati, and Junayd al-Baghdadi.

What is the Qadiriyya wa Naqshbandiyya order, and how did it form?

The Qadiriyya wa Naqshbandiyya is a hybrid Sufi order formed by synthesizing the teachings and lineages of the Qadiri order, founded by Abdul Qadir Gilani, and the Naqshbandi order, founded by Shah Baha al-Din Naqshband.

What is the symbolic meaning of the star within the rose symbol of the Qadiri order?

The text mentions that a star is located in the center of the rose symbol worn by members of the Qadiri order. While the rose itself represents the path and its stages, the star's specific symbolic meaning is not detailed in this excerpt, but it is part of the order's emblem.

Who was Qi Jingyi Hilal al-Din, and what is his importance in Chinese Sufism?

Qi Jingyi Hilal al-Din was a student of Khwaja Abdullah and is credited with establishing Qadiri Sufism in China. His burial in Linxia City marked the city as a central hub for the Qadiriyya in the region.

What is the 'Hal' in the context of the Qadiriyya order's symbolism?

In the context of the Qadiriyya rose symbol, 'Hal' refers to a spiritual state or condition. The acquisition of Sharia, Tariqa, and Ma'rifa is said to bestow the Hal known as Haqiqa, or truth.

What is the primary goal of the Qadiri Sarwari sub-order?

The primary goal of the Qadiri Sarwari sub-order, founded by Sultan Bahu, is the contemplation of God. It emphasizes this spiritual focus without adhering to strict dress codes or requiring lengthy periods of seclusion.

What is the 'Haqiqa' as described in relation to the Qadiriyya symbol?

Haqiqa, meaning 'truth', is described as a spiritual state or condition attained through the integration of Sharia, Tariqa, and Ma'rifa. It is the ultimate goal signified by the three circles within the Qadiriyya rose symbol.

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Understanding the Qadiriyya

A Sufi Tradition

The Qadiriyya, also known as the Qadiri order, is a prominent Sunni Sufi order (tariqa). It was founded by the esteemed scholar and preacher Abdul Qadir Gilani (1077–1166 CE), who was a follower of the Hanbali school of Islamic jurisprudence.

Global Reach

Established in the 12th century, the Qadiriyya order has achieved widespread influence. Its adherents and sub-orders are found across numerous regions, including India, Bangladesh, China, Turkey, Indonesia, Afghanistan, Pakistan, the Balkans, Russia, Palestine, and extensively throughout East, West, and North Africa.

Spiritual Lineage

The order traces its spiritual lineage (silsila) back to the Prophet Muhammad, a common practice in Sufism that emphasizes the transmission of spiritual knowledge and authority through a chain of revered masters.

Historical Trajectory

Foundation and Early Growth

Abdul Qadir Gilani led a madrasa in Baghdad, becoming its leader after his teacher Abu Saeed Mubarak Makhzoomi. Following Gilani's death in 1166 CE, his son Abdul Razzaq succeeded him, further solidifying the Qadiriyya's reputation as a prestigious Sufi order. The order demonstrated resilience, surviving the Mongol conquest of Baghdad in 1258 CE.

Expansion Across Continents

By the late 15th century, distinct Qadiriyya sub-orders had emerged and spread to regions such as Morocco, Spain, Turkey, India, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Mali. The order's influence continued to grow through the propagation of Gilani's legends and teachings, notably through texts like Bahjat al-Asrar.

China: Khwaja Abdullah introduced the order in the late 17th century, with his student Qi Jingyi Hilal al-Din establishing its center in Linxia City.
India: Sultan Bahu significantly contributed to the Qadiriyya's spread through his extensive Punjabi writings.
Africa: The Kunta family, particularly Sidi al-Mukhtar al-Kunti in the 18th century, established a vast confederation and spread Qadiriyya teachings throughout West Africa.
Nigeria: Usman dan Fodio popularized Qadiriyya teachings in the late 18th century, becoming a revered religious thinker and mystic.

Diverse Sub-Orders

Branching Traditions

The Qadiriyya order has diversified over centuries, giving rise to numerous sub-orders, each with unique characteristics and geographical centers. These branches maintain the core Qadiri principles while adapting to local contexts and developing distinct spiritual practices.

Qadiri Naushahi: Founded by Muhammad Naushah Qadiri in Gujarat, Pakistan.
Qadiri Sarwari: Established by Sultan Bahu in the Indian subcontinent, emphasizing contemplation of God.
Qadiri Sammani: Present in Sudan and Nigeria, spread by mystic Nasiru Kabara.
Qadiri Mukhtari: Led by al-Mukhtar al-Kunti in the Sahara, known for its centralization and focus on economic prosperity alongside spiritual well-being.
Qadiri Harari: Founded by Abu Bakr bin 'Abd Allah 'Aydarus, with shrines in Harar, Ethiopia, and influence in the Horn of Africa.
Qadiri Barkati: Founded by Shah Barkatullah Marehrawi in India, influential in the Barelvi movement.
Qadiri Tekkesi: Founded by Seyfullah Effendi Hintli, popular among Romani people in Turkey and the Balkans.
Qadiri Arusi: Founded by Muhammad ibn Ahmad Lebbai in Sri Lanka, advocating communal harmony.
Qadiri Halisi: Founded by Abdurrahman Halis, popular in Turkey and Iraq.
Qadiriyya wa Naqshbandiyya: A synthesis of Qadiriyya and Naqshbandiyya orders, prominent in Pakistan, India, and Indonesia.
Kasnazani: The largest Sufi order in Iraq, also present in Iran.

Symbolism and Succession

The Rose Symbol

Members of the Qadiriyya order traditionally wear a rose in their cap, a symbol explained by the order's Sheikhs. The rose, with a star at its center, represents the spiritual journey. Its colors and forms are said to convey deeper meanings related to the path.

The symbolism originates from a story where Sheikh Abdul Qadir Gilani, guided by Khidr, arrived in Baghdad. A Sheikh sent him a cup full of water, signifying that Baghdad was already full of learned men. Gilani responded by placing a rose in the cup, indicating that Baghdad would find a place for him.

The rose's structure further symbolizes the stages of spiritual knowledge: the outer rings represent Sharia (divine law) and Tariqa (the spiritual path), while the inner circles signify Ma'rifa (knowledge of God), ultimately leading to the attainment of Haqiqa (ultimate truth).

Spiritual Chains

Sufi orders place great importance on their spiritual lineage, or silsila, which traces the transmission of spiritual authority back to the Prophet Muhammad. The Qadiriyya has several recognized chains, reflecting the diverse paths through which its teachings have been transmitted.

Two commonly cited spiritual chains are:

Muhammad → Ali ibn Abi Talib → Hasan Basri → ... → Abu Saeed Mubarak Makhzoomi → Abdul Qadir Gilani
Muhammad → Ali ibn Abi Talib → Husayn → ... → Ali al-Rida → Ma'ruf Karkhi → ... → Abu Saeed Mubarak Makhzoomi → Abdul Qadir Gilani

Scholarly discussions sometimes highlight variations in these chains, particularly regarding the connection between Imam Ali al-Rida and Ma'ruf Karkhi, with some traditions emphasizing the lineage through Hasan al-Basri.

Key Figures and Practices

Core Practices

Central to the Qadiriyya, like other Sufi orders, are practices aimed at spiritual purification and closeness to God. These include:

Dhikr: Remembrance of God, often through chanting His names or phrases.
Haḍra: A collective spiritual gathering involving chanting, movement, and sometimes music.
Ziyarat: Visiting the shrines of saints and revered figures.
Muraqabah: Meditation and contemplation.

Literary Contributions

The Qadiriyya tradition has produced significant literature, including works on Sufi doctrine, hagiographies, and poetry. Key texts associated with the order and its founder include:

Bahjat al-Asrar (The Joy of Secrets)
Al-Risala al-Qushayriyya (The Ascetic Treatise)
Kashf al-Mahjub (Unveiling the Veiled)
Works by Sultan Bahu and other influential Sheikhs.

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References

Omer Tarin, Hazrat Ghaus e Azam Shaykh Abdul Qadir Jilani sahib, RA: Aqeedat o Salam, Urdu monograph, Lahore, 1996

Abun-Nasr, Jamil M. "The Special Sufi Paths (Tariqas)". Muslim Communities of Grace: The Sufi Brotherhoods in Islamic Religious Life. New York: Columbia UP, 2007. 86â96.

Lapidus, Ira M. A History of Islamic Societies. 3rd ed. New York, NY: Cambridge University Press, 2014. pg 469

Abun-Nasr, Jamil M. "The Special Sufi Paths (Taqiras)." Muslim Communities of Grace: The Sufi Brotherhoods in Islamic Religious Life. New York: Columbia UP, 2007. 86-96.

Abun-Nasr, Jamil M. "The Centralized Sufi Brotherhoods." Muslim Communities of Grace: The Sufi Brotherhoods in Islamic Religious Life. New York: Columbia UP, 2007. 163â170.

Tazkare Khwanadane Hazrat Eshan(Stammesverzeichnis der Hazrat Ishaan Kaste)(verfasst und geschriben von: Yasin Qasvari Naqshbandi Verlag: Talimat Naqshbandiyya in Lahore), p. 281

A full list of references for this article are available at the Qadiriyya Wikipedia page

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This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not religious or spiritual advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional guidance from qualified religious scholars or spiritual leaders. Always consult with knowledgeable individuals for matters of faith and practice.

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The Qadiriyya Path

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Understanding the Qadiriyya ℹ️

🕌 A Sufi Tradition

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Historical Trajectory 📈

📜 Foundation and Early Growth

🗺️ Expansion Across Continents

Diverse Sub-Orders 🧩

🌿 Branching Traditions

Symbolism and Succession ✨

🌹 The Rose Symbol

🔗 Spiritual Chains

Key Figures and Practices 💡

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Understanding the Qadiriyya

A Sufi Tradition

Global Reach

Spiritual Lineage

Historical Trajectory

Foundation and Early Growth

Expansion Across Continents

Diverse Sub-Orders

Branching Traditions

Symbolism and Succession

The Rose Symbol

Spiritual Chains

Key Figures and Practices

Core Practices

Literary Contributions

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

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Discover other topics to study!

References

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Disclaimer

Important Notice