The Shaykh al-Kamil Mausoleum (Arabic: ضريح الشيخ الكامل), romanized as Cheikh Al Kamel Mausoleum also known as the Mausoleum of al-Hadi ben Issa (ضريح الهادي بنعيسى) is a historic religious complex located in Meknes, Morocco.[1]
A 19th-century photograph of the mausoleum. Note the absence of a minaret
The mausoleum of Mohamed ben Issa, a prominent Ash'ari scholar and Sufi mystic, was established in the 16th century.[2] Later in 1776, the Alaouite ruler, Mohammed Ben Abdallah, built a completely new structure around the saint's tomb.[3] The minaret appears to have been a later addition. The complex is currently used as both a mosque and mausoleum.[1]
The celebration of Mawlid, which is the celebration of the birth of Muhammad, occurs at the mausoleum.[4] This festival is different from other Mawlids, due to it being done in the unique Issawi style.[4] Instruments like the ta'raj, the brass, the flutes, the drums, the trumpet, are played, before the participants enter a long session of dhikr and meditation.[4] Traditionally, dates are a meal during this festive occasion.[4]
Rituals
The rituals of the Issawi order are performed here.[5] The mausoleum is also the focal point of an annual moussem (a type of Sufi religious festival).[5] Unlike Mawlid, the festival here was brutal in nature, and it was historically known for its displays of self-mutilation.[5] The religious rituals in the festival are intertwined with musical and joyful celebrations that are sometimes violent, including rolling around and drinking blood of animal sacrifices.[6]
Controversy
The mausoleum became known for its presence of homosexuals, and the government tried to suppress the rising of homosexual rituals within the building.[7] These homosexuals claimed to have been the descendants of Aisha, another local patron saint of Meknes.[7]
Gallery
The entrance to the mausoleum
The courtyard of the building, covered by glass roof
Doorway and entrance to the prayer hall
The tomb of one of Mohammed Al-Hadi ben Issa's descendants
