Sayyid Ahmad Al Badawi || The Sufi Saint of Tanta

This video features an interview with Dr. Mustafa Badawi, who discusses the life and spiritual legacy of Sayyid Ahmad Al-Badawi, a renowned 13th-century Sufi saint whose influence remains deeply felt today, particularly in the Egyptian town of Tanta. Origins and Early Life Identity and Name: Dr. Mustafa clarifies that while they share a name, he is not a descendant of the saint, as Sayyid Ahmad never married [02:34]. The name "Al-Badawi" was a nickname earned because he lived in the desert like a Bedouin and was an expert horseman and swordsman [01:45]. His family name was actually Al-Badri, and they are descendants of Imam Hussain [01:45]. Journey to Mecca: Born in Morocco, his father moved the entire family to Mecca. The journey took three years because they were frequently invited to stay in various towns by people honoring their Sharif status [04:15]. Scholarship: In Mecca, Sayyid Ahmad became an expert in the religious sciences, including Quranic readings (qira'at), and was a key link in the chain of transmission for these studies [04:31]. The Path of a Saint Spiritual Stature: Though his father and brothers were also highly spiritual figures, Sayyid Ahmad was considered the "jewel" among them [05:11]. The Call to Tanta: After a period in Iraq, where he encountered other great saints, he was spiritually directed to go to Tanta (then a small village) [06:05]. Asceticism and Teaching: His spiritual state (hal) was described as "fiery" and intense; he would reportedly stand on his roof for days staring at the sky without food or sleep [06:19]. He taught his 40 major disciples (murids) from the alleyway below his house, sending them out to establish branches of what became the Ahmedi order [06:42]. Legacy in Tanta Spiritual Radiation: Dr. Mustafa explains that certain saints are given "functions" even after death, which is why Sayyid Ahmad is still remembered and visited by millions [08:58]. The Moulid of Tanta: Every year, approximately two million people travel to Tanta for his moulid (celebration), a testament to his enduring spiritual influence [09:38]. Center of Learning: The Ahmedi Mosque was historically a major center for religious sciences, functioning similarly to a smaller-scale Al-Azhar University [10:53]. Facing Criticism The "Sunnah" of Trials: Dr. Mustafa notes that like the prophets, all great saints face vilification. He views the modern campaigns of slander against Sufi saints as a deliberate attempt to disconnect people from "sources of light" [15:04]. Forgiveness: Despite these attacks, the characteristic of these saints is that they forgive their detractors, following the example of the Prophet Muhammad [14:53].