Hamadsha

Origins and history

The brotherhoods trace their roots to two saints buried near Meknes. Sidi 'Ali ben Hamdush founded the 'Allaliyyin order, while his servant Sidi Ahmed Dghugi established the Dghugiyyin. Many locals claim descent from these figures and hold the title shurfa. Although descendants often join the group, most do not. The practice shares similarities with the zar and Bori rites, showing deep connections to Sufism and North African folk mysticism.

Spirits and possession

Rituals often involve spirits like Aisha Qandicha, who demands blood sacrifices from men. Other entities include Sidi Hamu, Sidi Musa, and Sidi Mimun. Participants attend ceremonies to build relationships with these beings and maintain baraka, or divine favor. The goal is to ward off harmful influences and restore balance. Some view Aisha as a jinn, while others reject this classification entirely.

Ceremonies and music

Events may take place in huts or near saint tombs. Musicians play large guwwāl drums, small t'arījāt, a ghīta oboe, and a gimbrī string instrument. The night begins with a procession called dakhla. Inside, participants chant hizb and recite poetry. Intense dancing follows, where possessed individuals may slash themselves. Helpers intervene to prevent injury. The ceremony ends after the spirit is appeased.

How Hamadsha is kept

Members gather in groups called taifa, sometimes meeting in a zawiya. Ceremonies start with a street procession where musicians warm their drums over fire. Once inside, they play hadra music and chant. Participants read poetry accompanied by drums or clapping. Dancers move until possession occurs, with helpers ensuring safety. Sacrifices like chickens or goats are boiled without salt, and the water is smeared on walls. The meat is shared among attendees.

When and where

The main pilgrimage happens during the week of mussem, celebrating Muhammad's birth. Other sessions occur when someone needs healing or spiritual guidance. These can happen at any time, often lasting from evening until morning.

The tradition is strongest in Morocco, particularly near Meknes where the founding saints are buried. It also has connections to Egypt through shared spirit names and musical elements. Pilgrimages go to specific tombs along different routes.

What Hamadsha means

The ritual restores social and spiritual balance. Baraka represents divine power flowing through saints and participants. Possession allows individuals to embody a spirit, gaining a new identity or curing illness. The sacrifice and sharing of food reinforce community bonds and respect for the unseen world.

Questions people ask about Hamadsha

See also

Beautiful Festival of the ValleyAn ancient Egyptian festival honouring the dead with river processions across ThebesMawlidAn annual festival marking the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, marked by poetry, processions and feasts.Traditional tattooingThe ancient custom of marking the skin for protection, healing, status and sacred ritesTan-Tan MoussemAn annual gathering of Saharan nomadic tribes with music, trading and equestrian arts

Good reading and sources

• Hamadsha on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data

It may contain mistakes. Traditions differ from one family, village and community to the next, and the people who keep them know them best. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-04.