The Boudechich Qadiri Zawiya in Fez, Morocco, recently hosted a German delegation of 20 academics, writers, and journalists, led by Moroccan journalist Dr. Abd al-Rahman Ammar, who is based in Germany. The visit aimed to introduce the delegation to the Sufi experience in Morocco and explore its spiritual and educational dimensions. The visit was supervised by Sheikh Mu'adh al-Qadri Boudchich, the head of the Qadiri order.
During their visit, the delegation attended spiritual sessions, including a session of dhikr, or remembrance of God, and listened to Sufi chants and praise for the Prophet Muhammad. This experience allowed the German visitors to witness firsthand some of the devotional practices and spiritual traditions of the Qadiri order. The visit also provided an opportunity for the delegation to learn about the values that underlie the Sufi experience, including compassion, love, and respect for humanity.
The delegation was deeply moved by their experience, with some members describing it as "difficult to describe." Dr. Gudrun Born, a professor of religion at the University of Cologne, said she felt a "shiver" during the visit, which she described as taking her "from texts and books to living Sufism up close." Thomas Hartmann, co-founder of the German Green Party and editor of the newspaper Tagesszeitung, also expressed his gratitude for the experience, saying it was a unique opportunity to witness Sufi practices and values.
The visit was not limited to observing spiritual sessions but also included discussions with followers of the Qadiri order and an exploration of its educational and spiritual aspects. The delegation engaged in open dialogue with the zawiya's members, gaining insight into the Sufi way of life and its values. The visitors praised the warm hospitality they received and expressed their appreciation for the experience, which they said allowed them to connect with the Sufi tradition in a more direct way.
The Qadiri order's emphasis on spiritual growth, self-refinement, and moral development resonated with the delegation. They learned about the importance of cultivating inner qualities such as compassion, forgiveness, and humility, and how these values can shape an individual's relationships with others. The visit provided a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and mutual understanding between the German delegation and the Qadiri community.
The experience had a profound impact on the delegation, with many members expressing their gratitude for the opportunity to engage with the Sufi tradition in a meaningful way. The visit demonstrated the value of interfaith dialogue and cultural exchange, highlighting the potential for mutual understanding and respect between different communities. The Qadiri zawiya in Fez has become a hub for spiritual growth and learning, attracting visitors from around the world who seek to deepen their understanding of Sufism.
The German delegation's visit to the Boudechich Qadiri Zawiya in Fez has sparked interest in Sufism and Moroccan culture, promoting greater understanding and cooperation between Morocco and Germany. The experience has also underscored the importance of preserving and promoting Morocco's rich cultural heritage, including its Sufi traditions.
Key points
- The visit provided a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and mutual understanding between the German delegation and the Qadiri community.
