Abu Abdullah Muhammad ibn al-Qasim al-Qandusi (Arabic: محمد بن القاسم القندوسي‎) came from Kenadsa in Algeria and migrated to Fes, Morocco in 1828 (1244 AH). Although he lived a fairly obscure lifestyle selling herbs and spices in the main market on Fes, he was endowed with great spiritual insight and sainthood. It was clear to those closest to him that he was a true knower of Allah (a gnostic) and undoubtedly possessed an intimate connection with the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

Shaykh al-Qandusi was known to be a majdhub, that is, he was prone to exuberant spiritual states meaning he would say and do things which were deemed unacceptable, but inwardly these were correct.

Towards the end of his life, he divulged some spiritual secrets and wrote a number of books which demonstrated his vast knowledge of the religious sciences, spirituality and metaphysics, the most famous being Sharab Ahl al-Safa fi al-Salat ‘ala al-Nabi al-Mustafa (The Drink of the People of Purity in Prayers upon the Chosen Prophet ﷺ). Some of these works have since been translated into English.

Shaykh al-Qandusi often saw the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in visions in the wakeful state. In one of these visions, the Prophet ﷺ gave him glad tidings saying to him:

You are my son in truth! Speak if you wish, or remain silent if you wish. I love you and love those who love you! I am your guarantor and patron, so do not be afraid of anything.

The Shaykh was also a calligrapher and he is attributed as the one who wrote the name of Allah in his unique style in the Moulay Idris mosque. He also wrote out an entire copy of the Quran in this special handwriting, spanning 12 volumes, as well as a copy of Dalail al-Khayrat by Imam al-Jazuli.

Shaykh al-Qandusi was affiliated with the Qadiri and Nasiri spiritual orders. He passed away on Saturday 12th Jumada al-Awwal 1861 (1278 AH). He is buried outside of Bab al-Futuh in Fes, Morocco.

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