The Qadiriya Boutchichia Zaouia, one of the most influential Sufi lodges in Morocco, is currently experiencing a delicate phase in its history following the death of its late Sheikh Jamal Ben Hamza Ben Al-Abbas last week. This event has cast a shadow over the future of the zaouia, especially with emerging disagreements regarding the selection of his successor and conflicting reports about the implementation of his will. This crisis repeats itself within a historical context marked by similar conflicts, raising questions about the continuity of the zaouia model in Morocco.
The Heritage of the Boutchichia Zaouia: Between Spirituality and Politics
Founded in the 20th century by Sheikh Hamza Ben Al-Abbas, the Qadiriya Boutchichia Zaouia became an influential spiritual and cultural center. The zaouia is known for organizing an annual international gathering on the occasion of the Mawlid, attracting thousands of disciples from all over the world. Held in the village of Madagh, near Berkane, this event has become a platform for the convergence of spirituality and political influence, attended by government officials, intellectuals, and artists.
Over time, challenges have emerged regarding the balance between the zaouia’s spiritual mission and political interests. Journalist Younes El-Meskini, who attended the gathering between 2008 and 2012, recounts his personal experience, which began with a passion for discovery and later turned into an internal critique after observing the contrast between the poverty of Madagh village and the wealth of the zaouia, as well as other issues related to transparency and organization.
Leadership Dispute: Repetition of Previous Scenarios
Disagreements over the choice of the Sheikh’s successor are not new. Throughout the zaouia’s history, similar conflicts have occurred, notably between Sheikh Hamza and his brother Abdel Salam Yassine, founder of the Al-Adl Wal Ihssane movement. This conflict reflects the tension between preserving spiritual independence and the surrounding political and social influences.
Today, history repeats itself with a dispute between Monir Al-Qadri Boutchich, grandson of Sheikh Hamza, and some family members over the future leadership of the zaouia. This dispute raises questions about the zaouia’s ability to adapt to contemporary challenges while maintaining its spiritual mission amid political and social changes.
The Zaouia Between Spirituality and Power: Is Balance Possible?
Questions arise regarding the zaouia’s ability to maintain its spiritual independence while being closely linked to political power. On one hand, the zaouia is considered a center of Sunni Sufism and plays a role in reinforcing Morocco’s religious identity. On the other hand, its interests appear intertwined with power circles, which could affect its credibility and autonomy.
In this context, a key question emerges: Can the Boutchichia Zaouia find a balance between its spiritual mission and its political and social interests? Or will continuing this overlap risk losing its spiritual essence and making it vulnerable to political fluctuations?
Conclusion: Rethinking the Zaouia Model
The internal conflicts and external challenges facing the Qadiriya Boutchichia Zaouia present an opportunity to rethink the zaouia model in Morocco. Should zaouias remain purely spiritual institutions, or should they adapt to contemporary demands without compromising their essence? The answers to these questions may determine the future of zaouias in the kingdom and help preserve their balance between spirituality and socio-political influence.
