What is a Sidi?

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Sidi is an honorary title traditionally given to someone who has reached the level of mastery and sainthood. See how mastery and sainthood are included in the exact definition. It suggests that one can only really become a 'master' if they have mastered themselves to such an extent that God is pleased with them. Everything they do on this Earth becomes about God - the Master of the Universe; they are guided to fulfil the purpose of their existence. They are now, what I call, experiencing life while in the Sidi Zone.

HISTORIC USAGE

The term is often used in the Arab World. It derives from the Arabic word Sayyidi - my Master, a title given to someone considered a spiritual guide or a community leader. In some communities, they may use it to show the other person a token of respect without the person necessarily having to be a master or guide. 

The term Sidi also goes beyond the Arab borders to Asia and Africa. For instance, in India, an African Muslim holding a high position under a King of the Deccan was referred to as Sidi. It is said that today, about 65,000 Africans live in Sidi communities in India, having integrated into the Indian subcontinent as early as the 7th century.

Interestingly, in the Urdu language, Sida or Sidi denotes the meaning of 'straight' and while Urdu has an Arabic heritage in its initial language formation, perhaps the link between the two words in their respective languages is that a Sidi is, ultimately, someone on the straight path; the path leading straight to God. The concept of 'straight' and Sidi becomes even more mind-boggling since the path to mastery is never simply 'straight' in its literal sense, as it will, undoubtedly, have many ups and downs. Yet the path to God is the straightest path to mastery, and the straightest path to mastery is the path to God.

SO WHAT IS THE SIDI MINDSET?

Well, to become a Sidi in life, you must first develop the mindset to become one. Without belief and conviction in your attitude and practice to attain your goals, you will find yourself stuck repeating the same patterns which prevent you from living life beyond your limits and achieving optimum mastery. We must become a Sidi in every sense of the word.