Islam in Morocco
Islam has played a central role in Moroccan society and history. Approximately ninety-nine percent of the population adheres to Sunni Islam, though smaller Jewish and Christian communities exist, primarily in Casablanca and other coastal cities.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: الإسلام في المغرب (al-Islam fi al-Maghrib)
- Turkish: Fas’ta İslam
Historical Overview
Early Islamic Reform
Modern Islamic reformism in Morocco is often traced back to Sidi Muhammad ibn Abd Allah (d. 1790). He launched a series of reforms aimed at revitalizing Islamic practice and administration in the face of European encroachment.
Salafiyyah Reform Movement
The latter part of the 19th century and the early 20th century witnessed the spread of the Salafiyyah reform movement to Morocco. This movement sought to return to what activists viewed as the pure practices of early Islam (the Salaf), free from later innovations. The reform initiatives became entwined with Moroccan nationalism, culminating in Muhammad Allal al-Fasi’s leadership in the Istiqlal (Independence) Party.
The Justice and Charity Association
In contemporary Morocco, Islamist organizations have continued the push for reform. One of the key figures in this movement is Abd al-Salam Yasin, founder of the Justice and Charity Association (al-Adl wa’l-Ihsan). This group has emerged as a significant force among the various Islamist movements in the country.
Sociopolitical Context
In July 1999, King Mohammed VI ascended the throne, succeeding his father, King Hassan II. His rule has been marked by attempts to modernize the country’s political landscape, while also dealing with the rise of various Islamist groups seeking a stronger role for Islam in public life.
Relevant Personalities
- Sidi Muhammad ibn Abd Allah: A reformer who began modern Islamic reformism in Morocco.
- Muhammad Allal al-Fasi: Leader of the Istiqlal Party, advocate for Salafiyyah reform and nationalism.
- Abd al-Salam Yasin: Founder of the Justice and Charity Association (al-Adl wa’l-Ihsan), a key Islamist organization.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Islamic Reformism in Morocco: Muhammad Abduh and His Followers” by Jacques Wertheim – This work delves into the broader impact of reformist ideas from key figures in Morocco.
- “A History of Modern Morocco” by Susan Gilson Miller – Provides an in-depth look at Morocco’s modern history, including the role of Islam.
- “Moroccan Islam: Tradition and Society in a Pilgrimage Center” by David Hart – Focuses on the societal and traditional facets of Moroccan Islam.
Takeaways
- Morocco’s Islamic landscape is predominantly Sunni Muslim, with its modern reform movements significantly influenced by historical figures and evolving sociopolitical contexts.
- The interplay between reformist ideas, nationalism, and contemporary Islamist movements shape the society’s approach towards Islamic practice.
- The ongoing influence of significant religious and political leaders continues to affect the direction of Islam in Morocco.
Conclusion
Understanding Islam in Morocco necessitates an examination of its rich history of reform, its cultural entwinement with nationalism, and the contemporary movements seeking to mold the nation’s future. The dynamic interplay between these elements illustrates the evolving nature of Moroccan Islam and its pivotal role in the broader Islamic world.
