The Sheikh Hussein Shrine - Beyond the Pilgrimage

Beyond the Pilgrimage: The Living Heritage, Ecology, and Interfaith Landscape of the Sheikh Hussein Shrine

Solomon Teshome

The Dire Sheikh Hussein Shrine is situated in the Bale Zone of the Oromia Region, Ethiopia, and is thought to have been established in the 12th century. Sheikh Hussein is believed to have introduced Islam to the Sidamo people living in the area at the time. He is also credited for founding and establishing the Sultanate of Bale and is said to have performed many miracles. The shrine is visited by many thousands of Muslim pilgrims twice a year, once during the Muslim month of Hajj to commemorate his birth and again, during the month of Rabi' al-Awwal, to commemorate his death.

Solomon will talk about these two major Muudaa pilgrimages, large-scale events that define the shrine for most visitors and observers. The shrine is in continuous use throughout the year and Solomon aims to paint a vivid picture of the site, the practices, and the community.

Dr. Solomon Teshome is an Assistant Professor at Bahir Dar University in Ethiopia, specializing in folklore.

Photograph © Robert Waddingham