Shadhiliyya Sufi Order

Overview

A major Sufi order founded by Abu al-Hasan al-Shadhili (1196-1258 CE) in North Africa. The Shadhiliyya emphasizes combining spiritual practice with active worldly engagement, gratitude (shukr), and reliance on God (tawakkul). Unlike some orders, Shadhili practitioners are encouraged to maintain regular employment and family life. The order is widespread in North Africa, Egypt, the Levant, and has branches in East Africa and Southeast Asia. Ibn Ata'illah al-Iskandari, author of al-Hikam, was a prominent Shadhili master.

Key Beliefs

• Spiritual practice integrated with worldly engagement
• Gratitude and contentment as spiritual virtues
• No requirement to wear distinctive clothing or withdraw from society
• Emphasis on inner spiritual states over external practices
• Balance between hope in God's mercy and fear of His justice