Sheikh Ahmad Tijani bin Ali Cisse is the current spiritual leader of the Tijaniyya Sufi order, a highly influential Islamic order that holds a significant place in Western Africa. The Tijaniyya is recognized as the largest Sufi order in the region, boasting millions of followers who look to Sheikh Tijani Cisse for guidance and leadership in matters of faith and spirituality. His role as a leader extends across national borders, impacting the spiritual lives of Muslims in Senegal and far beyond.
Leader of Tijani Muslims: Cisse ascended to the leadership of the Tijaniyya Sufi order following the death of his elder brother, Sheikh Hassan Cisse, in 2008. Sheikh Tijani took on the mantle of leadership and assumed the role of Imam of the Grand Mosque in Medina-Baye, Senegal. The Grand Mosque holds a central place in the spiritual life of the Tijaniyya order and serves as one of Western Africa’s most important centres of Islamic leadership. As the Imam of the mosque, Sheikh Tijani plays a crucial role in maintaining the religious, cultural, and spiritual traditions of the Tijani community.
Lineage and Teachers: Born in 1955, Sheikh Tijani Cisse is the son of Sheikh Ali Cisse, the closest disciple of Sheikh Ibrahim Niasse, and Fatima Zahra Niasse, Sheikh Ibrahim’s daughter. After memorising the Qur’an in Medina-Baye, he began his career as a Qur’an teacher while pursuing his Islamic studies under the direct mentorship of his father and grandfather. He was the last student to receive personal instruction from Sheikh Ibrahim Niasse, focusing on classical Arabic literature and poetry. After his early education, he continued his formal studies in Egypt, where he excelled, earning degrees from Al-Azhar University, including a distinction in Hadith. His educational journey included extensive travels, where he engaged in religious debates and interfaith dialogue, further solidifying his scholarly credentials.
Tijani Tariqah: Sheikh Tijani Cisse is a leader of the Tijaniyya Sufi order, known as the Fayda Tijaniyya, which was revitalised by Sheikh Ibrahim Niasse in the 20th century. This spiritual path emphasises direct personal experience of the Divine, strict adherence to the sunnah, and community service. The Grand Mosque in Medina-Baye serves as the spiritual heart of the Tijani community.
Scholarly Activities: Sheikh Tijani is known for his scholarly works, including editing and publishing key writings of Sheikh Ibrahim, such as Kashif al-Ilbas and Sa’adat al-Anam, which are foundational texts for the Tijani order. His scholarly efforts have been recognized by academic and governmental bodies alike, including appointments by the Senegalese government as General Commissioner for the Hajj and as Special Missions Ambassador. His leadership extends beyond religious duties; he also presides over the African American Islamic Institute, a UN-recognized humanitarian organization focused on healthcare, education, and cross-cultural communication.
Descendent of The Tijaniyya Founder: The Tijaniyya is a Sufi order founded by Ahmad Al-Tijani Hasani, an Algerian, in the late 18th century. As the spiritual leader of the Tijaniyya, Cisse is considered to be the bearer of a spiritual inspiration called the Fayda Tijaniyya (“flood” or “overflow of spiritual grace”), giving him authority to carry on the teachings of Ahmad Al-Tijani Hasani. The Tijanis are characterised by strict following of the sunnah, recitation of spiritual litanies (awrad), individually and in gatherings, and an emphasis on developing an inner relationship with God.
