The Boudchichiya zawiya: From Spirituality to Symbolic Authority

writen by adelfattah el hidaoui and translating by us

 Introduction

Sufi zawiyas are an integral part of the historical, social, and religious fabric of Morocco. These institutions were not merely spaces for worship and remembrance; they played pivotal roles in shaping the cultural and political identity of the Kingdom throughout the ages. Since their inception, zawiyas have provided spiritual refuge, centers of learning, and incubators for the poor and needy. They have often served as strongholds of resistance against foreign invaders and as a support for the people against the encroachment of the central authority

However, the Sufi landscape in Morocco has undergone profound transformations in the modern era, as some zawiyas, most notably the Boudchichiya zawiya, have shifted from an exclusive focus on spiritual education and asceticism to acquiring widespread symbolic, political, and social influence. This shift has raised numerous questions about the nature of these institutions and their role in contemporary society, especially with their increasing connection to political, economic, and security elites

This academic study analyzes and scrutinizes the phenomenon of the transformation of the Boudchichiya zawiya from a purely spiritual institution to an entity with symbolic authority and influence that extends beyond the religious sphere to encompass the political and social sphere. The study seeks to answer the central question: How did the Boudchichiya zawiya transform from a traditional spiritual institution into an entity with symbolic authority and widespread influence in the contemporary Moroccan landscape? What factors contributed to this transformation? What are its implications for the zawiya’s relationship with the state and society

To achieve its objectives, this study adopts a comparative analytical approach, reviewing the historical role of traditional zawiyas in Morocco. It then moves on to a case study of the Boudchichiya zawiya, analyzing its origins, development, and the structural and intellectual transformations it has undergone. The study also focuses on the dialectical relationship between the Boudchichiya zawiya and the Moroccan state, and how this relationship has been exploited to serve mutual interests. The study draws on academic sources, newspaper articles, and historical documents to provide a comprehensive and balanced analysis of this complex phenomenon

Traditional Zawiyas in Morocco: Their Historical, Social, and Political Role
Zawiyas represent an integral part of Morocco’s ancient history, having emerged and developed as influential religious, social, and political entities since the Middle Ages. These institutions were not merely places of worship and Sufi remembrance; they served as multi-functional centers, meeting the spiritual, educational, and social needs of society, and even intervening in political affairs on occasion

The Origins of Zawiyas and Their Classical Functions

Zawiyas emerged in Morocco after the fifth century AH, specifically during a period of weakness in central authority, which provided them with an opportunity to fill the void left by this weakness. Their classic functions were diverse and comprehensive

Spiritual Education and Remembrance: The primary function of zawiyas was to spread Sufism and teach disciples the principles of spiritual behavior, asceticism, and closeness to God through the remembrances and invocations specific to each order. These spaces served as schools for the refinement and purification of souls.
Education and Dissemination of Knowledge: Zawiyas were not limited to religious education alone; they were also centers for the dissemination of religious and linguistic knowledge, and even some secular sciences. It produced many scholars and jurists who contributed to enriching intellectual life in Morocco. Quranic schools were attached to the zawiyas, providing basic education for children
Social Relief and Assistance: Zawiyas played a vital role in caring for the poor, the needy, and the wayfarer. They served as shelters and restaurants, providing food and shelter to the needy, and fostered social solidarity among members of society. They also intervened in resolving disputes and conflicts between tribes and individuals, promoting social stability
Resistance and Jihad: During periods of foreign occupation or weakness of the central authority, some zawiyas became strongholds of resistance and jihad against invaders. Zawiya sheikhs led armed resistance movements and mobilized tribes to defend their land and religion, leveraging their spiritual influence and extensive network of followers. Prominent examples of this are the Dila’i Zawiya and the Wazzani Zawiya, which played a prominent role in resisting French and Spanish colonialism
Traditional Relationship of the Zawiyas to the Makhzen (central authority)

The relationship of the zawiyas to the central authority (the Makhzen) fluctuated between cooperation and confrontation. At times, the zawiyas were strong allies of the Makhzen, supporting its legitimacy and helping it extend its influence over remote regions and tribes. In return, the Makhzen provided material and moral support to the zawiyas and recognized the status of their sheikhs. However, this relationship was not always smooth. At other times, the zawiyas represented a challenge to the Makhzen’s authority, especially when they gained significant influence and transformed into independent political forces. Moroccan history has witnessed numerous conflicts between the zawiyas and the Makhzen, sometimes ending in the victory of one side or a settlement of the balance of power

Examples of traditional zawiyas and their roles

The Dila’iyya Zawiya: It is considered one of the most powerful zawiyas, having a significant political and scholarly influence in Morocco during the 17th and 18th centuries. It led a resistance movement against the occupation, established an independent state for a period, and was a prominent scientific and cultural center
The Wazzaniyya Zawiya: It played an important role in spreading Islam in West Africa and had strong relations with the Alaouite sultans. It was known for its role in mediation and conflict resolution, and wielded widespread spiritual and social influence

Thanks to its multiple roles, traditional zawiyas have been a fundamental pillar in building Moroccan society and preserving its identity. They have represented the voice of the people against injustice, provided refuge for the weak, and have often been a driver of change.

The Boudchichiyya Zawiya: Origins and Development
The Qadiriyya Boudchichiyya Zawiya is one of the most prominent Sufi orders in contemporary Morocco, and has gained widespread fame and influence in recent decades. The roots of this zawiya date back to the 19th century, specifically to the village of Madagh in the Berkane region of eastern Morocco, in the Beni Yznasen tribe. The zawiya is attributed to Sheikh Abdul Qadir al-Jilani, founder of the Qadiriyya order, one of the oldest and most widespread Sufi orders in the Islamic world

A Historical Overview of the Boudchichiya Zawiya (19th Century)

The Boudchichiya Zawiya began its journey as a simple Sufi order focused on spiritual behavior and remembrance, away from the limelight and publicity. The zawiya derives its name from the title “Boudchichiya,” derived from one of its early sheikhs, Sidi Ali bin Muhammad, who was known for feeding people “dshisha” (a simple popular dish) during times of famine, reflecting the spirit of solidarity and giving that characterized the zawiya in its early days

The Sheikhs of the Zawiya and Their Impact on Its Development

A number of sheikhs succeeded to the leadership of the Boudchichiya Zawiya, contributing to its development and expansion. Among the most prominent of these sheikhs are

Sheikh Al-Mukhtar Al-Qadiri Al-Boudchichi: He was known for his resistance to the French occupation at the beginning of the twentieth century, which earned the Zawiya respect and prestige among Moroccan tribes. The Zawiya was vandalized, and the sheikh was arrested for his role in the resistance

Sheikh Al-Abbas Al-Qadiri Al-Boudchichi: He assumed the leadership after the death of Sheikh Abu Madyan Al-Qadiri Al-Boudchichi in 1955. During his reign, the order witnessed significant expansion, and its prominence began to rise

Sheikh Hamza Al-Qadiri Al-Boudchichi: He assumed leadership of the order in 1972 after the death of his father, Sheikh Al-Abbas. Sheikh Hamza is considered one of the most prominent figures who contributed to the modernization of the Zawiya and the expansion of its influence. He worked to renew Sufi discourse to suit contemporary requirements, focusing on the spiritual education of disciples, emphasizing the values of facilitation and endearment rather than severity and alienation. During his reign, the zawiya became a center of attraction for many disciples from various social classes, including elites and intellectuals
The Intellectual and Educational Foundations of the Boudchichiya Zawiya

The Boudchichiya Zawiya’s educational approach relies on several intellectual and spiritual foundations, the most important of which are

Sheikh-centricity: The order believes in the importance of having a sheikh who is a perfect educator, serving as a mirror for the disciple, allowing him to see his own flaws and guide him toward self-purification and closeness to God. The sheikh is considered the link between the disciple and the divine truth
Dhikr and Awrad: Dhikr is one of the most important spiritual practices in the zawiya, where disciples adhere to special invocations and dhikr, which they believe are authorized by God and His Messenger through a chain of sheikhs. These invocations aim to purify the heart and purify the soul
Al-Tahla Qada Qal-Takhla: The zawiya’s approach focuses on the principle of “al-Tahla Qada Qal-Takhla,” meaning first tasting the sweetness of faith and worship, which automatically motivates the disciple to abandon sins and evil deeds. This approach aims to transform spiritual behavior into a lived and experiential experience, not merely a matter of imitation or speculation
Reforming the Heart: Reforming the heart is the cornerstone of the zawiya’s educational curriculum. The heart is the center of faith, and with its improvement, all other faculties are improved. The zawiya focuses on treating heart diseases and directing the heart toward God Almighty
The Boudchichiya zawiya is distinguished by its strict organization and discipline, and its ability to attract large numbers of followers, organizing major annual gatherings that bring together thousands of them, especially on the Night of Power and the anniversary of the Prophet’s birthday. Despite its emphasis on the spiritual dimension and non-interference in politics, its widespread reach and influence across diverse segments of society have made it the focus of many researchers and observers, particularly regarding its relationship with authority and society

Transformations of the Boudchichiya Zawiya: From Spirituality to Symbolic Authority
Like many Sufi orders in Morocco, the Boudchichiya Zawiya has undergone profound transformations in recent decades, transforming it from a mere space for spiritual education and dhikr (remembrance) to an entity with broad symbolic, political, and social influence. These transformations were not a coincidence; rather, they are the result of an interaction of internal and external factors that contributed to reshaping the role and position of the Zawiya in the contemporary Moroccan landscape

Structural Transformation: From a Space for Dhikr to a Gathering for Elites

In its early days, the Boudchichiya Zawiya focused primarily on the spiritual aspect, attracting disciples seeking self-purification and closeness to God. Over time, especially during the reign of Sheikh Hamza al-Qadiri al-Boudchichi, the Zawiya began to attract broader social segments, including political elites, businessmen, security officials, media professionals, and influential figures. The Zawiya thus transformed into a kind of elite meeting place, where spiritual dimensions intertwine with worldly interests

This structural transformation is reflected in the nature of the meetings and activities organized by the zawiya. While dhikr and spiritual education sessions were the dominant feature in the past, these meetings today are increasingly attended by public figures, giving them a formal and, at times, non-spiritual character. These gatherings, held in a spiritual atmosphere, are implicitly transformed into spaces for exchanging interests and coordinating positions between the state, its officials, and the network of elite disciples

The Intertwining of Spirituality with Politics and Interests

One of the most prominent features of this transformation is the intertwining of spirituality with politics and interests. While the zawiya officially emphasizes its political neutrality and non-interference in public affairs, its close relationship with the ruling regime and the presence of political elites at its events indicate an organic relationship between the two parties. In this context, the Boudchichiya zawiya is viewed as a tool for political exploitation, whereby the state leverages its spiritual influence to enhance its legitimacy and stability, while the zawiya leverages this connection to gain a special status and protection from the authorities

This overlap raises questions about the independence of the zawiya in its decisions, and whether spirituality remains the primary driver of its activities, or whether it has become a means to achieve political and social goals. The relationship between the zawiya and the state is not one-sided; rather, it is reciprocal, with each party providing the other with what it needs

From Asceticism to Prestige: Acquiring Influence and Privileges

In traditional zawiyas, asceticism, humility, and aversion to fame and wealth were essential characteristics of disciples and sheikhs. In the modern Boudchichiya zawiya, however, membership in it has become a means to acquire social prestige, influence, and privileges. The disciple in the zawiya is no longer merely a seeker of spiritual purity; he may find himself faced with practical opportunities and positions he would never have dreamed of outside this framework. This shift from asceticism to prestige reflects a change in the values and standards governing the relationship between the disciple and the zawiya

Historical Paradox Compared to Traditional Zawiyas

The transformations of the Boudchichiya Zawiya demonstrate a clear historical paradox compared to traditional Zawiyas in Morocco. While the old Zawiyas were a refuge for the weak, a bulwark against the Makhzen’s encroachment, and a driver of resistance against colonialism, the Boudchichiya Zawiya today is experiencing the opposite situation

From Confrontation to Alliance with the Government
Historical Transformation
In its beginnings, the Boudchichiya Zawiya was not clearly political in nature; rather, it was more of a religious and spiritual space, focusing on Sufi education and asceticism. However, as its social and spiritual influence expanded, it became a focus of attention for the state, which viewed it as an actor capable of absorbing some social and religious tensions
The Period of Caution and Neutrality
During the 1960s and 1970s, the Moroccan scene was experiencing political tensions (the radical left, the emerging Salafi jihadism, and the palace’s conflicts with the opposition). During this period, the Boudchichiya Zawiya tended toward passive neutrality, neither clashing with the government nor approaching it too closely. The phase of rapprochement with the authorities:
With the rise of Sheikh Hamza al-Qadiri al-Boudchichi (d. 2017), the zawiya expanded significantly, attracting thousands of followers from within and outside Morocco. This tremendous growth made it a formidable force in the religious sphere. The state, in turn, saw this rise as an opportunity to build an “alternative Islam” based on moderate Sufism to confront Salafist movements and political Islam
The Clear Alliance
Especially after the events of May 16, 2003 in Casablanca, the official position shifted toward increasing support for Sufi zawiyas, especially the Boudchichiya, as a spiritual defense against extremism. The Boudchichiya zawiya became a strong presence at official national and religious events, and its members participated in royal councils for dhikr and madih. State media (official channels) also gave it ample space to promote its image
Manifestations of the alliance
Participation of zawiya figures in official activities under royal patronage
Indirect support for the expansion of its headquarters, especially the Madagh headquarters (Oujda), which became a destination for thousands of visitors
Its discourse converges with that of the royal institution on tolerance, moderation, and spiritual security
Some of its sheikhs have become unofficial “religious ambassadors” for Morocco in Europe and Africa
Thus, it can be said that the relationship between the Boudchichiya and the authorities has shifted from a position of observer or neutrality to that of religious and political partner in maintaining stability. The state harnesses the “spiritual momentum” of the zawiya as part of its project to counter extremism, while the zawiya benefits from official protection and support that strengthens its presence and influence

From Protecting the Poor to Embracing the Elite

In its early days, the Boudchichiya zawiya, like other Sufi zawiyas in Morocco, was a refuge for the poor and marginalized, providing them with food, clothing, and shelter, and offering a spiritual space to alleviate the harshness of daily life. Its presence was linked to charitable and solidarity-based activities, as it played the role of a “popular restaurant” and a “spiritual guest house”

However, over time, particularly from the 1970s onward, a transformation began

Attracting political and administrative elites: Ministers and senior officials began to frequent the zawiya, especially during major events such as the annual Mawlid al-Nabi festival in Madagh. Their presence was seen as a sign of loyalty to the regime and a symbolic gain of capital

Economic elites: Prominent businessmen and company owners became members of the zawiya, not so much for spiritual seclusion as for a network of relationships that opened channels with the authorities and the administration

Academic and cultural elites: University students and researchers chose to engage with the zawiya for various purposes, some spiritual, others seeking a position within the new network of influence

Thus, the zawiya transformed from a space dedicated to “the poor and simple disciples” into something resembling a “closed salon for elites,” where bridges were built between statesmen, financiers, and clerics

From Absolute Spirituality to a Network of Interests

Pure spirituality was the essence of the zawiya in its beginnings: collective dhikr (remembrance), spiritual retreats, education in asceticism and detachment from the world. However, political and social transformations in Morocco led the Boudchichiya zawiya to transcend this spiritual aspect and become part of a “complex network of interests”

The Political Dimension: The Moroccan state encouraged the rise of the Boudchichiya zawiya in the face of political Islamist movements, especially during the rise of Salafi jihadism, as an alternative discourse focused on “tolerance and spirituality.” Thus, the zawiya became a tool for establishing political stability

The Economic Dimension: Through its network of businessmen, the zawiya has become a space that facilitates economic projects and indirect partnerships, especially during major events that attract thousands of visitors, bringing economic activity (hotels, restaurants, and commercial events)

Thus, the zawiya has transitioned from being a spiritual school to a multidimensional network where political, economic, and social interests intertwine, in a paradox that reflects the transformations that Morocco has experienced since the end of the twentieth century

The poor are no longer the central group in the zawiya; they have been replaced by elites who view the zawiya as a conduit to power

Pure spirituality has declined in favor of political and economic interests that have made the zawiya an instrument of social and political control

The Relationship Between the Boudchichiya Zawiya and the Moroccan State
The relationship between the Boudchichiya Zawiya and the Moroccan state represents a complex and intertwined model of religious and political interdependence. This relationship goes beyond mere spiritual support to encompass strategic dimensions that serve the interests of both parties. While the Zawiya seeks to maintain its status and influence, the state works to leverage this influence to enhance its legitimacy and stability, especially in the context of the contemporary political and social landscape

Mechanisms for the Political Use of the Zawiya

The Moroccan state relies on several mechanisms to employ the Boudchichiya Zawiya in its domestic and foreign policy. The most prominent of these mechanisms are

Strengthening Religious Legitimacy: Zawiyas, including the Boudchichiya, are an important source of religious legitimacy for the ruling regime in Morocco, which is based on the principle of the Emirate of the Faithful. The Zawiya’s support for the regime gives it a religious character and protects it from opposing criticism, especially from other Islamic movements
Controlling the Religious Sphere: By supporting the Boudchichiya Zawiya and other moderate Sufi orders, the state seeks to contain and direct the religious sphere and prevent the spread of extremist or opposition movements. Sufism, with its peaceful and spiritual nature, is considered a bulwark against religious extremism
Spiritual Diplomacy: The diplomatic dimension: By attracting followers from Europe and sub-Saharan Africa, the zawiya has acquired a function parallel to official diplomacy, presenting Morocco as a country of “moderate Sufi Islam.” This serves the country’s image abroad, particularly with the European Union and Africa
Attracting Elites: The presence of political, economic, and security elites at zawiya events is a mechanism for uniting these elites around a particular vision and strengthening their loyalty to the regime. The zawiya provides an informal space for communication and coordination between these segments, contributing to the stability of the political landscape
The Role of the Zawiya in the Contemporary Political and Social Landscape

The Boudchichiya zawiya plays an increasingly important role in the contemporary political and social landscape in Morocco, beyond its mere spiritual dimension

Influencing Public Opinion: Thanks to its broad popular base, the zawiya has the ability to influence public opinion, particularly on issues related to religion or society. This influence can be used to support specific policies or to mitigate social tensions. Social Mediation: The zawiya continues to play a role in social mediation and conflict resolution at the local level, contributing to community stability and alleviating the burden on official institutions

Charity and Social Work: The zawiya continues to provide charitable and social services to those in need, enhancing its popularity and making it an integral part of the social fabric

Criticisms of the Boudchichiya zawiya: An In-Depth Analysis

The Boudchichiya zawiya, like many major Sufi orders in Morocco, has been subject to sharp criticism regarding its relationship with political power. The most prominent of these criticisms is the accusation of political exploitation. Many observers and researchers, particularly from opposition Islamist movements (such as Salafism and political Islamist movements), believe that the zawiya has become a functional tool in the hands of the Moroccan regime to serve its political and religious agendas

The Charge of Political Investigation

This accusation manifests itself in several ways, most notably the zawiya’s attraction of political elites and senior officials. It is not unusual to see ministers, politicians, and government officials attending the zawiya’s Sufi seasons and gatherings, appearing alongside its sheikh and his sons. This intense elite presence is interpreted as an attempt by the regime to confer religious legitimacy on its rule and exploit the zawiya’s spiritual symbolism to strengthen political loyalty. In a Moroccan context characterized by the intertwining of religion and politics, supporting Sufi zawiyas becomes an effective means for the Makhzen to confront its opponents, especially Islamist movements that may pose a challenge to its authority

Critics argue that this close connection between the zawiya and the authorities deprives the zawiya of its supposed independence as a purely spiritual institution. Instead of being an independent religious institution focused on spiritual education and spiritual purification, it has become part of the regime’s religious legitimization mechanism. Some researchers have suggested that the Boudchichiya zawiya, and other zawiyas that enjoy official support, serve as a “bulwark” against political Islam and contribute to filling the religious arena with a view consistent with the state’s vision of peaceful and moderate religiosity

Examples and Case Studies

The Presence of Official Figures at Seasons: The annual seasons of the Boudchichiya zawiya, such as the Mawlid al-Nabi, are prominent occasions attended by senior state officials, reflecting the close relationship between the zawiya and the regime. These large gatherings, sometimes broadcast on state media, send a clear message of the state’s support for the zawiya, while in return, the zawiya demonstrates its loyalty to the ruling authority

Statements supporting the regime: On many occasions, prominent sheikhs or followers of the zawiya make statements supporting state policies or calling for national unity and loyalty to the king. These statements are interpreted as part of the zawiya’s role in maintaining social peace and political loyalty, reinforcing the accusation of political exploitation.

The zawiya’s role in confronting protest movements: Sometimes, the zawiya is accused of playing a role in calming protest movements or guiding public opinion in favor of the regime, through its influence over its followers spread across the country. This role, although not always direct, is viewed as part of the state’s strategy for managing the religious and political spheres

Some argue that this political exploitation empties the Sufi experience of its profound moral and spiritual content, turning it into a mere tool for serving worldly interests. However, others believe that the relationship between the zawiya and the authorities in Morocco is a deeply rooted historical relationship, and that the zawiya have always been part of the social and political fabric of the kingdom, and that their current role is an extension of their historical role in maintaining stability and strengthening religious legitimacy

Departure from Authentic Asceticism and Sufism

Asceticism, humility, and detachment from worldly trappings are essential principles of authentic Sufism, whereby the Sufi seeks to purify the soul from attachment to material things and focus on a spiritual relationship with God. However, many critics believe that the Boudchichiya zawiya has deviated from this authentic path, and that its current practices are inconsistent with the spirit of asceticism and humility that characterizes true Sufism

The zawiya is accused of having become a means of social advancement and access to a wide network of interests and relationships, rather than a path to spiritual detachment. Several examples of practices considered far from asceticism are cited in this regard, including

Large receptions and lavish celebrations: The zawiya organizes large Sufi seasons and celebrations, attended by thousands of disciples and public figures. These celebrations are characterized by their grand organization and extravagance, which contradicts the principles of asceticism and simplicity. These gatherings, although intended to strengthen spiritual bonds, are interpreted as a display of power and influence, distancing the zawiya from its image as a modest spiritual institution

Celebrating Foreign Followers and Elites: The zawiya pays special attention to foreign followers and elites from various fields, and special receptions are held for them. Although this celebration contributes to the global spread of the order, it is viewed as enhancing the zawiya’s social and political standing and detracting from its focus on the inner spiritual dimension. Some researchers describe this shift as “Sufism without asceticism,” meaning a Sufism that is institutionalized and socially and politically radiant, rather than a profound inner experience

Access to networks of interests: It is believed that belonging to a zawiya opens doors to social and economic opportunities, attracting individuals seeking worldly gain, not just spiritual experience. This aspect raises questions about the purity of intentions of some followers and reinforces the notion that the zawiya has become a network of interests that transcends the spiritual dimension

Defenders of the zawiya argue that these manifestations do not necessarily contradict Sufism, and that asceticism does not necessarily mean complete isolation from society or a rejection of the trappings of life. Rather, Sufism can be effective in society and contribute to building social relationships, and that major celebrations are a means of bringing followers together and strengthening their bonds. However, the gap between Sufi discourse, which focuses on self-purification and detachment from the world, and the actual practices, which are strongly present in the public sphere, raises questions about the zawiya’s commitment to the principles of authentic asceticism

Mystery and Secrecy (The Question of the “Secret”)

The question of the “secret” is one of the most controversial and ambiguous aspects of the Boudchichiya zawiya and a major focus of criticism directed at it. In general Sufi literature, the “secret” is usually understood as a spiritual inspiration, a “special blessing,” or an esoteric knowledge possessed by the sheikh and passed on to his successor or close disciples, within the framework of what is known as the “Sufi chain of ijazah,” which ensures the continuity of spiritual light from generation to generation. This concept links the sheikh to his Sufi forebears, all the way back to the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), and grants him spiritual legitimacy

However, the concept of the “secret” in the Boudchichiya context has taken on a different and ambiguous dimension, raising questions about its nature and function. It is commonly believed that the sheikh monopolizes this “secret” and bestows it upon whomever he deems worthy of the caliphate, making the process of selecting the caliph shrouded in secrecy and mystery. This ambiguity raises many academic and critical questions

Is the “secret” a symbolic concept or a mechanism of authority? Some researchers believe that the “secret” may not merely be a symbolic concept of spiritual communication with God through the sheikh, but rather a mechanism for controlling authority within the zawiya and ensuring absolute loyalty to the sheikh and his successor. With the lack of transparency regarding how this “secret” is transmitted, it becomes more like a symbolic mechanism of authority that perpetuates the continuity of the Boudchichi family in the sheikhdom and strengthens its dominance over the zawiya

The Impact of Ambiguity on Legitimacy: The ambiguity surrounding the issue of the “secret” can weaken the spiritual legitimacy of the new sheikh in the eyes of some disciples or outside observers, especially if the transition process is not clear or transparent. In the absence of clear and announced criteria for selecting a successor, the transition process may be interpreted as a mere family inheritance, devoid of genuine spiritual foundations

Analytical Studies on this Concept

Sociological Analysis: From a sociological perspective, the concept of “secret” can be analyzed as a form of “symbolic capital” possessed by the ruling family of the zawiya. This symbolic capital is used to reproduce power and influence within the zawiya and confers an aura of sanctity on the sheikh and his family, enhancing their status and cementing the loyalty of the disciples. The ambiguity here is not a deficiency; rather, it is part of a strategy to build prestige and authority

The issue of the “secret” in the Boudchichiya zawiya highlights the tension between the inner spiritual dimension of Sufism and the social and political dimensions that form part of the reality of Sufi zawiyas. While it is viewed by followers as a symbol of divine blessing and connection, it is viewed by critics as a tool for consolidating power and controlling the caliphate

Succession Conflicts

Although the concept of “secret” is supposed to clearly define the caliph within the Boudchichiya zawiya, the reality is that there are hidden and sometimes overt struggles over leadership and sheikhdom, especially after the death of Sheikh Jamal al-Qadiri al-Boudchichi in 2025. These struggles highlight that the “secret” does not always decisively resolve the issue of succession, but rather serves as a symbolic tool to legitimize those with the strongest support both within and outside the family

The issue of succession in Sufi orders in general, and in the Boudchichiya zawiya in particular, is a sensitive and complex issue, intertwining spiritual dimensions with familial, social, and even economic considerations. Sheikhdom in the Boudchichiya zawiya, as is the case in many major Sufi orders, is typically passed down by inheritance within the founding family, making it vulnerable to conflicts of influence and interests. After the death of Sheikh Jamal, some tensions emerged over the inheritance of the sheikhdom between his sons and grandsons, which led to divisions within the ranks of the disciples

Examples of succession struggles and their impact

Rivalry between siblings: After Sheikh Jamal’s death, his sons competed for the position of sheikh, leading to conflicting statements and mutual accusations. These conflicts, which sometimes reached the media, revealed deep-seated disagreements within the family over who was more deserving of inheriting the “secret” and the sheikhdom. This rivalry demonstrates that absolute loyalty to the sheikh may not necessarily extend equally to his successors, especially if there are doubts about the legitimacy of the succession

The influence of external factors: Succession struggles are not limited to the internal factors of the zawiya; they are also influenced by external factors, such as the support of political power or social elites. The party with greater support from these groups has a better chance of deciding the succession issue in their favor. This reinforces the notion that spirituality intersects with political and worldly considerations, especially when the authorities interfere in the appointment of the new caliph. The new sheikh loses all legitimacy surrounding the secret and blessing and becomes an employee of the authorities

Impact on the unity of the zawiya: Succession conflicts can destabilize the zawiya and divide its followers, weakening its influence and power. In some cases, some followers may break away from the zawiya and establish new Sufi orders or join other orders, threatening the unity and continuity of the zawiya

These conflicts indicate that the Boudchichiya zawiya, despite its spiritual stature, is not immune to the challenges facing human institutions, and that the issue of succession within it goes beyond the purely spiritual dimension to encompass complex political, social, and economic dimensions. These dynamics cast a shadow over the zawiya’s image and raise questions about its ability to maintain its spiritual purity in the face of these challenges

The Relationship with the Makhzen

The relationship between the Boudchichiya zawiya and the Makhzen (the Moroccan monarchy) is one of the most controversial and critical aspects of the Moroccan religious and political landscape. It reveals a delicate and complex equation in the Moroccan religious and political landscape. In Morocco, the king enjoys the title of “Commander of the Faithful,” which grants him supreme religious authority and places him above all Sufi orders and zawiyas. This religious position of the king justifies his interference in the affairs of the zawiyas, which is not considered foreign interference, but rather natural given his position as a unifying religious symbol for the nation

The Boudchichiya zawiya has consolidated this concept through its symbolic and political subordination to the king, having been incorporated into the Makhzen system, becoming a “royal zawiya.” This situation raises questions about the spiritual independence of the zawiya, as critics believe that this relationship has weakened its independence and replaced it with a vertical relationship of loyalty that aligns with the political model of the Makhzen. In this context, the disciples become similar to “subjects,” subordinate to their sheikh, who, in turn, is subordinate to the king as “sheikh of sheikhs”

The impact of this relationship on the independence of the zawiya

Loss of spiritual autonomy: Some argue that the zawiya’s deep integration into the Makhzen system has led to it losing a significant portion of its spiritual autonomy. Instead of being an independent source of spiritual authority, it has become part of the state apparatus, which has diminished its credibility in the eyes of certain groups, particularly those seeking a pure Sufi experience free from political influence

Using the zawiya in the official agenda: By virtue of its relationship with the Makhzen, the zawiya is used to support the official state agenda, whether in confronting extremist Islamist movements or in promoting Morocco’s image as a country of tolerance and religious moderation on the international stage. Although this employment serves the state’s interests, it raises questions about the zawiya’s freedom to make its own decisions and positions without influence from the authorities

Financial and Administrative Dependence: This relationship may extend to financial and administrative dependence, as the zawiya receives state support and is subject to its supervision in some aspects. This dependence reinforces the notion that the zawiya has become a semi-official institution, part of the state’s strategy for managing the religious sphere

The relationship between the Boudchichiya zawiya and the Makhzen embodies the complexities of the religious and political landscape in Morocco, where spiritual dimensions intertwine with political interests, forming a complex network of relationships that define the zawiya’s role and status in society

Discussion and Critical Analysis

The criticisms directed at the Boudchichiya zawiya present a complex and multidimensional picture of a prominent Sufi phenomenon in Morocco. Analyzing these criticisms is not limited to simply listing them; rather, it requires an in-depth discussion of their social, political, and economic dimensions, how they interact with the actual practices of the zawiya, and the role of various actors in shaping public opinion around them

. Comparing Criticisms with the Actual Practices of the Zawiya

Comparing the criticisms directed at the Boudchichiya zawiya with its actual practices reveals a gap between rhetoric and practice in some aspects. While the zawiya presents itself as a spiritual institution focused on self-purification and distancing from the world, its public practices, such as grand receptions and elite attendance, demonstrate a focus on social and political aspects. This apparent contradiction can be explained in several ways

Adapting to Reality: The zawiya may have adapted to the political and social reality in Morocco, where interaction with the authorities and elites is part of the public landscape. Maintaining complete neutrality could expose the zawiya to isolation or marginalization, while a close relationship with the authorities can provide it with protection and support, enabling it to spread its message more widely

Practical Sufism: Some advocates of the zawiya believe that Sufism does not necessarily entail isolation from society, but rather a practical Sufism that seeks to positively influence reality. Therefore, the zawiya’s presence in the public sphere and its interaction with elites can be viewed as part of its role in serving society and disseminating spiritual values

Multiple Roles: The zawiya plays multiple roles; it is not only a spiritual institution, but also a social, economic, and political network. These multiple roles can sometimes lead to conflict and raise questions about the zawiya’s priorities and true objectives

Conclusions about the Future of the Boudchichiya Zawiya

The Boudchichiya Zawiya is likely to continue to play an important role in the Moroccan religious and social landscape, given its broad popular base and its intertwined relationships with the authorities. However, the continuation of these criticisms may affect its credibility in the long term, especially in light of growing awareness and criticism in academic and media circles. The Zawiya may be forced to reconsider some of its practices, or offer more transparent explanations about the nature of its relationships and concepts, to maintain its standing and overcome these challenges

Conclusion
This study demonstrates that the zawiyas in Morocco, particularly the Boudchichiya zawiya, have undergone profound transformations in their roles and functions throughout history. From being spaces for dhikr and spiritual education, a refuge for the poor, and a vehicle for resistance against colonialism, some of these zawiyas, particularly the Boudchichiya, have transformed into entities with symbolic authority and influence that extend beyond the spiritual dimension to encompass the political and social spheres