Cheikh Al Kamel Mausoleum
The Shaykh al-Kamil Mausoleum, romanized as Cheikh Al Kamel Mausoleum also known as the Mausoleum of al-Hadi ben Issa is a historic religious complex located in Meknes, Morocco.
It consists of a zawiya, mosque, and the mausoleum of Mohammed al-Hadi ben Issa the founder of the Isawiyya order of Sufism.
History
The mausoleum of Mohamed ben Issa, a prominent Ash'ari scholar and Sufi mystic, was established in the 16th century. Later in 1776, the Alaouite ruler, Mohammed Ben Abdallah, built a completely new structure around the saint's tomb. The minaret appears to have been a later addition. The complex is currently used as both a mosque and mausoleum.
Usage
The celebration of Mawlid, which is the celebration of the birth of Muhammad, occurs at the mausoleum. This festival is different from other Mawlids, due to it being done in the unique Issawi style. 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. Traditionally, dates are a meal during this festive occasion.
Rituals
The rituals of the Issawi order are performed here. The mausoleum is also the focal point of an annual moussem. Unlike Mawlid, the festival here was brutal in nature, and it was historically known for its displays of self-mutilation. 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.
Controversy
The mausoleum became known for its presence of homosexuals, and the government tried to suppress the rising of homosexual rituals within the building. These homosexuals claimed to have been the descendants of Aisha, another local patron saint of Meknes.