Glossary & Resources

This page explains key terms you may see on our site. Each word comes from the tradition of Islam, Sufism (Tasawwuf), and the Tijaniyya path. Over time, we will also add books, articles, and official links for further study.

Glossary

Zawiyah

A spiritual center for prayer, learning, and community service.

Silsila

The chain of teachers connecting a Shaykh back to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

Mawlid

The celebration of the Prophet Muhammad’s ﷺ birth through prayer, poetry, and remembrance.

Tijaniyya

A Sufi order founded by Shaykh Ahmad al-Tijani (RA), followed by millions worldwide.

Fayḍah

“Flood” of divine grace – the great outpouring realized through Shaykh Ibrahim Niasse (RA) of Medina Baye, Senegal.

Medina Baye

A city in Senegal founded by Shaykh Ibrahim Niasse (RA), now a global center of Tijani spirituality.

Dhikr

Remembrance of Allah through recitation of His names and Qur’an.

Resources

Scholarly Texts

Articles on Tijaniyya & Sufism

African American Islamic Institute