The Capacities of Sufism in Burkina Faso with Emphasis on Cultural and Social Interaction

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Al-Mustafa International University

2 President of Higher Education Complex for Language, Literature and Culture Studies

3 Director of the Department of Islamic Studies in Arabic

Abstract

Sufism has generally secured a prominent place in West Africa, especially in Burkina Faso, due to its historical service to scholars and its struggle against colonialism and its agents. The social power or influence of Sufism represents a significant opportunity in this region. The aim of this study is to provide a deeper understanding of the capacities of Sufism in Burkina Faso to facilitate meaningful and effective collaboration, particularly in cultural and social domains. Currently, there are numerous capacities in this country, including religious, cultural, and spiritual resources, highlighted by the commonalities between Muslims, particularly between Shia and Sufi communities. Common subjects among Muslims include the Holy Quran, the esteemed Prophet, the status and respect of the Ahl al-Bayt in the Quran and Hadith, and shared historical and directional elements. Additionally, due to the importance placed on prayer, intercession, remembrance, and pilgrimage among Sufis, these topics serve as common grounds between Shia and Sufi traditions, which could be leveraged to design beneficial programs. However, regarding the social capacities of this region and its people, it is noted that the people of Burkina Faso naturally hold great respect for religious leaders, scholars, and congregational leaders. They turn to scholars for both material and spiritual issues. Consequently, both Shia scholars and Sufi leaders can play important roles in society. Enhanced coordination between Shia scholars and Sufi leaders, along with the activation of these capacities, could lead to effective cultural and social interaction. Yet, only a small fraction of the existing potential between Shia and Sufi communities has been utilized so far, which needs to be maximized.
This research was conducted using a field-based analytical approach and correspondence with some regional scholars.

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Scientific Biannual Journal of Language and Culture of Nations
Volume 6, Issue 12
January 2024
Pages 307-330

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