Becoming a Sheikh in Cairo
Journal name: Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions
Original article title: Se faire cheikh au Caire
The journal “Archives of Social Sciences of Religions” publishes advanced research on religion in French, English, and Spanish. It studies the sociology of religions and religious traditions or theologies. It is supported by the INSHS-CNRS (“Institut des Sciences Humaines et Sociales”)
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Subtitle: Exemplarité et intériorité religieuse
Original source:
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Aymon Kreil
Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions:
(Founded in 1956 and published quarterly”)
Full text available for: Se faire cheikh au Caire
Year: 2010 | Doi: 10.4000/assr.21982
Copyright (license): © Archives de sciences sociales des religions
Summary of article contents:
1) Introduction
Aymon Kreil's article, "Se faire cheikh au Caire," examines the perceptions of piety among Muslims in Cairo and the role of religious figures, specifically cheikhs. The study highlights the complexity of religious identity in the context of Egypt's majority Sunni Muslim population, focusing on how individuals navigate their own expressions of faith compared to societal expectations. This analysis reveals the nuanced ways in which religious authority and personal devotion are understood, positioning the study within the broader scope of social dynamics in a predominantly religious environment.
2) The Concept of Exemplarity
One significant concept discussed in the article is exemplarity within the realm of religious authority. Kreil argues that not all Muslims are perceived as truly pious, and even among the pious, only a select few are regarded as cheikhs. Cheikhs serve as reference points for the community, embodying an ideal of religious conduct. The author notes that societal perceptions of cheikhs are complex, encompassing both respect and distance. These figures are often viewed through various lenses depending on the individual's own engagement with Islam, thus framing the cheikh as either a saintly figure or a more mundane authority figure lacking credibility in certain contexts.
3) Differentiation Among Religious Currents
Kreil also highlights the presence of diverse currents within Islam in Cairo, including Sufi brotherhoods, Salafist groups, and the Al-Azhar scholars. Each of these affiliations presents distinct characteristics and expectations, leading to varied understandings of religious identity. Sufi cheikhs may be seen as charismatic and miraculous, while Salafists emphasize a literal interpretation of Islamic texts. These differences shape how individuals within the community categorize themselves and others in terms of piety and authority, often leading to stereotypes that illustrate societal divides.
4) The Role of Public Appearance in Religious Identity
Another key aspect of the article is the emphasis on public appearance as a marker of religious identity. For many, visible signs such as clothing or physical attributes (like beards) are significant indicators of one’s religious commitment. Kreil discusses how styles associated with Salafi identity and conduct are openly displayed, allowing individuals to define their beliefs through a public persona. However, there is also an awareness among Cairo residents that these outward markers do not always correlate with true piety or moral integrity, underscoring a disconnect between external appearances and authentic faith.
5) The Importance of Internal Faith and Emotion
Kreil's analysis further examines the internalization of faith and the prioritization of personal emotion in religious practice. He notes that many Cairo residents express a preference for emotional and heartfelt understandings of their faith over strict adherence to religious practices. This perspective reflects a broader trend of individualization in spiritual practices, where personal connections to faith and internal beliefs become paramount, even in the face of societal expectations. Kreil posits that this valuing of inner conviction allows for a negotiated pluralism among differing Islamic expressions, serving as a counterpoint to rigid interpretations.
6) Conclusion
In conclusion, Kreil's work sheds light on the intricate relationships between personal faith, public identity, and religious authority within the Cairo Muslim community. By examining the concepts of exemplarity, differentiation among religious currents, public appearance, and the significance of internal faith, the article reveals the complexities of navigating religious identity in a diverse and pluralistic society. The findings suggest that while visible piety may signify commitment to faith, it is often the inner experience and emotional engagement that truly define a person's connection to their beliefs in contemporary Egyptian Islam.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What does 'se faire cheikh' mean in Cairo?
'Se faire cheikh' translates to 'becoming a sheikh' or 'acting like one.' It indicates adopting attributes or appearances associated with religious authority, often with ironic connotations.
How do Cairo residents view religious authority and cheikhs?
Religious authority is often seen as reserved for specific individuals, with the majority referencing common practices, defining a normality referent that may contrast with traditional Islamic interpretations.
What role do different Islamic currents play in Cairo?
Cairo's Islamic landscape includes various currents like Sufism and Salafism, each promoting distinctive identities, which contribute to the public perception and categorization of religious figures.
What are common stereotypes about different religious groups?
Stereotypes arise based on visible characteristics and behavior. For instance, Salafists are often seen as intolerant, while Soufis may be viewed as uneducated or mystical, both impacting how Cairo residents interact with them.
How do people perceive the visibility of religious practices?
There is a clear distinction between visible practices and genuine piety. The prevalence of particular religious signs, like beards, may diminish their effectiveness as markers of true religiosity over time.
How is individual piety viewed in relation to community practices?
Many Cairo residents emphasize individual piety and personal connection to faith, valuing sincere emotions over outward displays of religiosity, allowing for a nuanced pluralism in religious expressions.
What challenges do religious figures face in Cairo?
Cheikhs must navigate public scrutiny and expectations. They are sometimes accused of hypocrisy, especially if their behavior deviates from Islamic principles, undermining their authority and credibility.
Glossary definitions and references:
Theological and religious glossary list for “Becoming a Sheikh in Cairo”. The list explains important keywords that occur in this and other scholarly articles. It is also linked to the glossary for understanding that concept in the context of History, Religion, Philosophy, Theology, Sociology etc.
1) Religion:
Religion serves as the overarching framework within which individuals identify their practices and values, allowing for a distinction between those who embody an authentic commitment to faith and others who may merely display outward signs of piety. The concept of religion in this context emphasizes both communal standards and individual interpretations.
2) Prayer:
Prayer is portrayed as a significant act of worship within the religious life of Muslims, embodying both communal participation and individual spirituality. The public performance of prayer marks a delineation of religious identity, becoming a crucial aspect of daily life in Cairo, reflecting personal commitment and the manifestation of faith.
3) Faith:
Faith represents the inner belief and conviction that is often highlighted in discussions of piety and religious commitment in Cairo. It is described not merely as an external observance but as a profound emotional connection to God, signifying a quality of sincerity that transcends mere appearances.
4) Commitment:
Commitment is examined through the lens of individual engagement with religious practices and the wider societal expectations. It underscores the necessity for individuals to align their behavior with the ideals of their chosen religious tradition, affecting their status and perception within the community.
5) Emotion:
Emotion plays a critical role in understanding the personal nature of faith among Muslims in Cairo. The connection between emotional experience and spiritual belief is emphasized, highlighting how feelings of peace and serenity are essential to effectively relate to religious doctrines.
6) Face (Facing, Faced):
The face acts as a symbol of both internal conviction and external perception, reflecting the inner state of a believer while also serving as a marker of their religious identity. The notion that someone’s face can illuminate their piety is representative of the deeper connections to emotional and spiritual health.
7) Space:
Space, particularly in the context of mosques and communal gatherings, is critical for spiritual practices and fraternity among worshippers. It delineates physical environments where faith is enacted, and community values are reinforced through shared rituals and social connections.
8) Egypt:
Egypt serves as a geographical and cultural context for the study of religious identity and piety, where diverse Islamic currents interact. The dynamics in Cairo illustrate the ongoing negotiation of religious practices amid the tensions of modernity and tradition.
9) Power:
Power dynamics emerge prominently in conversations about religious authority and the role of sheikhs. Different groups within Islam exercise varying forms of power, impacting how religious legitimacy is conceptualized and how commitment is enacted by followers.
10) Discussion:
Discussion is integral to the exploration of religious identity, as it facilitates the exchange of ideas and perspectives among individuals with differing views. It highlights the importance of dialogue in negotiating personal faith and communal beliefs within Cairo’s social fabric.
11) Separation (Separateness, Separate, Separated):
Separation describes the implicit divide often drawn between the religious and the secular in daily life, influencing how individuals engage with their faith. It is considered critical to understand the boundaries that shape interactions among diverse religious practices.
12) Heart:
The heart symbolizes the core of personal faith and belief, often referenced in the context of sincere devotion to God. It is seen as the ultimate arbiter of genuine piety, reinforcing the necessity for internal states to align with external expressions of religious adherence.
13) Lead:
To lead within the context of religious authority refers to the role that sheikhs and religious figures play in guiding followers in their spiritual journeys. The effectiveness of these leaders often hinges on their ability to inspire faith and emotional commitment.
14) Experience:
Experience in religious practice is fundamental to understanding individual and communal expressions of faith. It emphasizes the importance of lived experiences in shaping one’s understanding and interpretation of Islamic teachings.
15) Knowledge:
Knowledge in this context relates to the study and comprehension of Islamic texts and the interpretations brought forth by various religious authorities. It is critical in distinguishing between different factions within Islam and their respective claims to authenticity and piety.
16) Evolution:
Evolution reflects the changes and adaptations inherent in religious practices and beliefs over time. It emphasizes how Islamic identity continues to be reinterpreted in response to contemporary societal shifts and personal experiences.
17) Doctrine:
Doctrine signifies the foundational beliefs and teachings that guide the conduct of Muslims. Understanding the doctrinal differences among various Islamic currents is vital to comprehending the complexities of religious identity in Cairo.
18) Forehead:
The forehead, particularly marked by the zebı¯ba, serves as a visible indicator of piety and frequent worship among Muslims. This symbol illustrates the interplay between public perception and the authenticity of personal faith practices.
19) Alcohol:
Alcohol is a topic of significant tension in discussions of Islamic adherence, representing forbidden behavior in many interpretations of Islam, which adds layers of complexity to individual identities among those navigating their faith in contemporary society.
20) Costume:
Costume refers to the distinct clothing associated with various Islamic affiliations, which acts as a visible marker of piety and often becomes a point of contention within the broader discourse on identity and commitment to religious ideals.
21) Student:
Student signifies individuals seeking knowledge of Islam, particularly within formal educational settings such as al-Azhar, illustrating the significant role of education in shaping religious identity and doctrinal interpretation.
22) Refuge:
Refuge highlights the role of faith as a sanctuary for individuals seeking solace and understanding in a complex world. It points to the emotional and spiritual safety that belief can offer amidst societal challenges.
23) Shumni (Sumni, Sunni):
Sunni refers to the dominant branch of Islam in Egypt, informing the majority of religious practice and belief structures within the context discussed. The distinctions within Sunni practice influence perceptions of authority and piety.
24) Judge:
To judge encompasses the act of assessing the religious behavior of oneself and others, often based on outward signs of piety. This process inherently involves societal expectations and personal introspection regarding spiritual authenticity.
25) Light:
Light symbolizes the clarity and truth associated with genuine belief and the serene state of a true worshipper. It serves as a metaphor for the inner illumination that faith can provide.
26) City:
City refers to Cairo as a dynamic urban environment where diverse religious expressions and interpretations coexist. The city is a focal point for understanding how Islam is practiced in contemporary societal contexts.
27) Conversation:
Conversation serves as a medium through which beliefs and religious identities are negotiated. Personal stories and rhetoric reveal the shared and conflicting views that shape the community’s understanding of piety.
28) Perception:
Perception relates to how signs of religiosity are interpreted within the community, affecting the legitimacy and authority ascribed to individuals claiming to be pious or knowledgeable about Islam.
29) Reflection:
Reflection denotes the act of contemplating one’s beliefs and actions in relation to Islamic principles. It is essential for personal growth within the faith and understanding one’s role in the larger community.
30) Dimension:
Dimension encompasses the various aspects of religious life, including social, emotional, and spiritual elements that contribute to a comprehensive understanding of piety within Islam.
31) Headgear (Head-gear):
Headgear, often associated with various Islamic identities, acts as a visible marker of religious belonging and commitment. The significance of headgear lies in its ability to convey messages about one’s faith externally.
32) Dialogue:
Dialogue reflects the interactions among individuals with differing religious beliefs, fostering an environment of understanding and exploration of diverse interpretations of faith and practice.
33) Confusion (Confused):
Confused describes the state of many individuals who grapple with their religious identity amid competing interpretations of Islam. It highlights the challenges of reconciling personal experiences with traditional beliefs.
34) Identity:
Identity is shaped by both personal and communal factors, crucial in defining how individuals relate to their faith and navigate societal expectations in a diverse religious landscape.
35) Village:
[see source text or glossary: village]
36) Lineage:
Lineage signifies the connection to historical religious figures or teachings that inform current practices and beliefs. This aspect emphasizes the importance of heritage in shaping individual and communal identity in faith.
37) Feeling:
Feeling encompasses the emotions associated with personal faith experiences, highlighting how sentiments of joy, serenity, and conviction contribute to a more profound engagement with religion.
38) Worship:
Worship refers to the acts of devotion performed by individuals, serving as a central element of religious expression that connects them to their community and God.
39) Violent:
[see source text or glossary: violent]
40) Purity:
Purity in religious contexts is often associated with maintaining an unblemished state of belief and practice. It reflects a commitment to the fundamental values of the faith, shaping the standards by which individuals measure their own piety.
41) Debate:
Debate signifies the discussions and disagreements among different interpretations of Islam, showcasing the diversity and dynamism within religious thought in Cairo.
42) Animal:
[see source text or glossary: animal]
43) Sunna:
Sunna refers to the traditional practices of the Prophet Muhammad, which serve as a guiding framework for many Muslims. It is essential for understanding the basis of religious authority and exemplarity in Cairo.
44) Drink:
Drink typically alludes to forbidden substances in Islam, highlighting the tension between societal behaviors and religious doctrine, often affecting self-perception and communal expectations.
45) Black:
[see source text or glossary: black]
46) Shame (Same):
Shame is an emotion that arises from perceived failures to adhere to religious standards. It reflects the societal pressures faced by individuals striving to embody a pious identity.
47) Taste:
Taste denotes the subjective preferences and choices individuals make regarding religious practices and interpretations, influencing how they engage with their faith and community.
48) Limit (Limiting, Limited):
[see source text or glossary: limit]
49) Realm:
Realm describes the broader sociocultural context within which Islamic practices evolve. This includes examining how various groups and interpretations coexist or conflict within Cairo’s religious landscape.
50) Tunic:
Tunic often refers to the specific attire worn by followers of different Islamic currents, marking their identity and commitment to their chosen interpretation of Islam.
51) Gama:
[see source text or glossary: gama]
52) Educational institution:
Educational institution highlights the importance of formal settings, like al-Azhar, in shaping theological understanding and providing a platform for the discourse around piety and religious authority.
53) Non-distinction:
[see source text or glossary: without distinction]
54) Young men (Young man):
Young man signifies the younger generation exploring their religious identity, often facing the dual pressures of societal expectations and personal beliefs in a rapidly changing environment.
55) Manifest (Manifested, Manifestation, Manifesting):
Manifestation refers to the external expressions of one’s faith, such as public displays of piety or conformity to social norms. It shapes how individuals are perceived within the community.
56) Communication (Communicating, Communicate, Communicated):
Communication encompasses the exchanges between individuals as they share beliefs, experiences, and interpretations of Islam, facilitating a deeper understanding of piety and identity.
57) Inconsistency (Inconsistent):
Inconsistency reflects the often conflicting behaviors of individuals who may present themselves as pious while engaging in activities that contradict religious teachings. This tension demands recognition in discussions about authenticity and commitment.
58) Transmission:
Transmission refers to the passing down of religious knowledge and practices across generations, contributing to the evolving understanding of piety and religious identity.
59) Celebration:
Celebration can embody religious holidays and communal rites that reinforce collective identities and provide a context for expressing joy within the framework of faith.
60) Environment:
Environment signifies the social and cultural context influencing religious practices and beliefs, shaping how they are embodied in everyday life.
61) Discernment:
Discernment refers to the ability to differentiate between true piety and mere outward signs of religiosity. It plays a crucial role in assessing one’s faith journey and the authenticity of others’ claims.
62) Recognition:
Recognition involves the acknowledgment of individuals’ religious dedication and status within their communities. The social currency of recognition plays a significant role in defining personal and collective identities.
63) Prostration:
Prostration is a physical manifestation of submission and humility before God, central to Islamic prayer. It embodies the physical and spiritual commitment that characterizes true worship.
64) Generality:
Generality refers to the broader societal norms that guide perceptions of piety, often overshadowing the nuances of individual belief and practice.
65) Pilgrimage:
Pilgrimage represents one of the core tenets of Islam, emphasizing the communal and individual aspects of faith as believers undertake significant journeys in devotion.
66) Worshipper (Worshiper):
Worshipper is a term denoting those who actively engage in acts of devotion and prayer, forming a vital part of the Islamic community in Cairo and embodying collective faith.
67) Science (Scientific):
Scientific denotes the rational approach many individuals take toward understanding Islam, emphasizing the importance of knowledge and analysis in religious discourse.
68) Mysticism:
Mysticism refers to the more esoteric interpretations of Islam found in Sufi practices, which emphasize personal experience and the direct connection to the divine.
69) Sentiment:
Sentiment reflects the emotional attachments and feelings that individuals cultivate in their relationship with faith, reinforcing the notion that personal convictions are crucial to understanding religiosity.
70) Wrestling:
Wrestling symbolizes not only physical struggle but also the metaphorical struggles individuals face as they navigate their faith amidst competing identities and societal expectations.
71) Spiritual:
Spiritual pertains to the inner dimensions of faith, emphasizing personal connections to the divine that often stand in contrast to external expressions of religious practice.
72) Existence:
Existence relates to the way individuals articulate their faith experiences within the context of their daily lives, navigating between religious obligations and secular influences.
73) Ignorance (Ignorant):
Ignorant refers to those lacking proper understanding or knowledge of Islam, emphasizing the necessity for education and critical engagement with religious teachings.
74) Isolation:
Isolation reflects the experiences of individuals who may feel disconnected from their religious communities, often struggling to reconcile their beliefs with societal pressures.
75) Sensation:
Sensation refers to the intense emotional experiences linked to spirituality, where faith becomes a source of profound feelings that shape personal and communal identity.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 114]