Senussi refers to a religious and political movement of Islamic origin that originated in the early 19th century in Libya. It takes its name from its founder, Muhammad ibn Ali as-Senussi, who established the order as a revivalist movement within the broader context of Islam. The Senussi movement promotes a conservative interpretation of Islam, emphasizing strict adherence to religious doctrines, spiritual discipline, and moral values.
The Senussi movement gained significant influence and support in North Africa, particularly in Libya, Egypt, Sudan, Algeria, and Tunisia. Under the leadership of Senussi, the movement also played a crucial role in anti-colonial struggles and resistance against European powers during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The Senussi order established religious institutions, schools, and centers of learning to foster the spread of Islamic education and the principles of the movement. It embraced a decentralized organizational structure, with local leaders known as sheikhs, who were responsible for the administration of the order in their respective regions.
Politically, the Senussi movement sought to establish an Islamic state based on Sharia law, advocating for the unity and independence of Muslim territories. It managed to establish a de facto state in Libya during the early 20th century, which lasted until the Italian invasion in 1911.
Today, although the Senussi movement has lost much of its political influence, it continues to exist as a religious order, promoting spiritual teachings, social assistance, and charitable work in various regions of North Africa.
