Definition:§
The Qadari Tariqah is a major Sufi order established posthumously by followers of Abd al-Qadir al-Jilani in the fourteenth century. This order is Hanbali in its legal orientation, emphasizing Unity and Divine Love. “Qadari” signifies following the mystical path and teachings of Abd al-Qadir al-Jilani.
Etymology:§
The term “Qadari” is derived from “Qādir”, meaning “power” in Arabic, here referring specifically to Qadiriyya, linking to Abd al-Qadir al-Jilani. The Arabic word “Tariqah” (طريقه) translates as “path” or “method”, emphasizing a mystic way of spiritual progression.
Historical Background and Dates:§
- 1077-1166: Abd al-Qadir al-Jilani’s life span; he was a revered Hanbali scholar and mystical saint.
- 14th century: Official establishment of the Qadari Tariqah in Damascus posthumously.
- 19th century: Expansion of the order from West Africa to Southeast Asia.
- 1950s: Played a significant role in the anti-colonial resistance movements in regions of Africa.
Cultural Differences and Similarities:§
Qadari practitioners adapt local cultures into their practices, which manifests in varying forms across Egypt, Syria, Indonesia, India, and Nigeria. Universally, they emphasize humility, piety, and devotion to God’s word.
Synonyms:§
- Qadiriyya
- Qadiriyah
- Kadiriyah
Antonyms:§
- Salafism
- Strict Orthodoxy without mysticism
Related Terms:§
- Rifai Tariqah: Another notable Sufi order, focusing on extreme asceticism.
- Hanbali: A legal school within Sunni Islam to which the Qadari Tariqah adheres.
- Zawiya: A term for Sufi lodges and affiliated places of worship linked to Sufi orders.
- Tariqah: General term for Sufi orders.
Exciting Facts:§
- Qadari leaders were pivotal in resisting European imperial entities in Africa during the 19th and 20th centuries.
- The order is known for its emphasis on “Allah’s omnipotence and presence within creation”.
- Abd al-Qadir al-Jilani is also regarded as a renovator of Islam in his time.
Quotations from Notable Writers:§
- “The saints of Qadiriya order manifest in exemplifying God’s unity and spread the light of divine love in the souls.” — Al-Shaykh Ibn Arabi
Further Reading and References:§
- “Muslim Saints and Mystics: Episodes from the Tadhkirat al-Awliya’ (Memoirs of the Saints)” by Farid al-Din Attar.
- “Mystical Dimensions of Islam” by Annemarie Schimmel.
- “Sufism: Love and Wisdom” edited by Jean-Louis Michon and Roger Gaetani.
Academic Quizzes 👨🎓📚§
Farewell from Tariq al-Habib: “Embrace the unity and boundless love within the mystical traditions of Islam, for it is in the divine path bahawa menemukan kedamaian (that one finds peace).”
