Notes on the Mystical History of Tunisia

Overview

• Tunisia is a popular tourist destination in North Africa.
• Features: sandy beaches, architecture, cuisine, and rich culture.
• Strong mystical history, especially related to Sufism.

Historical Significance

• Carthage: An ancient cultural center.
• Qayrawan: Considered the fourth holiest city in Sunni Islam, home to one of the oldest mosques.
• Tunis: Current capital, significant for its scholars and mystics.

Key Locations

• Medina: The old city district of Tunis.
  • Zeytuna Mosque:
    • One of the oldest mosques, built around 731 AD (main structure from 9th century).
    • Central to social and religious life in Tunis.
    • Notable visitors: Ibn Arabi, Abu al-Hassan al-Shadili, Ibn Khaldun.
  • Zawiyah of Sidi Mahrez:
    • A place for Sufis to gather, pray, and recite litanies.
    • Sayyidi Mahrez: Important scholar, considered a Wali (friend of God), patron saint of Tunis.
    • His mausoleum is ornate and peaceful.

Influence of Sufism

• Sufism flourished in Tunis, attracting celebrated mystics.
• Ibn Arabi:
  • Sheikh al-Akbar, significant figure in Sufi medicine.
  • Stayed in Tunis twice (1194, 1201) under Abdulaziz al-Mahdawi.
  • Significant spiritual visions occurred here, including the experience of God's vast earth.
• Abdulaziz al-Mahdawi:
  • Revered Sufi teacher, student of Abu Madian, possibly considered the Qutub (spiritual pole).
  • Died in 1221; mausoleum located in La Marsa.

Sidi Bou Said

• A picturesque town near Tunis, known for its blue and white architecture.
• Abu Sa'id al-Baji:
  • 13th-century Sufi saint, meditated on Jebel al-Manar.
  • Connected with Ibn Arabi and built a fortress for protection of Tunis.
  • His mausoleum is a pilgrimage site for many Muslims seeking Baraka.

Zawiya and Spiritual Gatherings

• Qahwa Al Aliyah:
  • Historical café at the base of the Zawiyah, formerly a male entrance.
  • A gathering place for Sufi practitioners post-Hadra (a ritual gathering).
• Zawiya Belhassan:
  • Associated with Abul Hasan al-Shadhali, founder of the Shadhali Sufi order.
  • Meditated in a cave in Tunis; became the main center for the Shadhali order in Tunisia.
  • Active today with weekly Hadrah sessions.

Aisha al-Manubia (Saida Manubia)

• Revered figure, student of Ashadli, significant as a female spiritual leader.
• Engaged in debates with male scholars; represents spiritual and intellectual power of women.
• Zawiya of Saida Manubiah in Manuba, active and a gathering place for women and marginalized groups.

Conclusion

• Tunisia's modernity hides a rich history of Sufism and mysticism.
• The legacies of great saints and mystics continue to influence the spiritual landscape today.