Comprehensive Definition
In Morocco, Islam is not merely a religion but a cultural and societal backbone. The majority of the Moroccan populace adheres to Sunni Islam, specifically the Maliki school of jurisprudence. Within the realm of modern Islamic reformism, influential figures like Sidi Muhammad ibn Abd Allah and Mohammed Allal al-Fasi played key roles. The Salafiyyah reform movement, advocating a return to perceived pure Islamic practices, merged with the nationalist sentiments of the early 20th century.
The present landscape sees groups like Abd al-Salam Yasin’s “Justice and Charity Association” (al-Adl wa’l-Ihsan) making significant impacts within the Islamic discourse.
Etymology
The word “Islam” derives from the Arabic root “س-ل-م” which means submission, peace, and safety. In the context of Morocco, it symbolizes a faith interwoven into the national fabric.
Historical Facts and Dates
- 1790: Death of Sidi Muhammad ibn Abd Allah, a reformist who laid groundwork for modern Islamic thought in Morocco.
- Late 19th - Early 20th Centuries: The Salafiyyah movement spreads and impacts Moroccan nationalistic movements.
- Early 20th Century: Mohammed Allal al-Fasi establishes the Istiqlal (Independence) Party, merging nationalism with Salafi principles.
- July 1999: Abd al-Salam Yasin ascends as a major figure in Moroccan Islamism with his Justice and Charity Association.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Similarities:
- Sunni Islam: Like many other Muslim-majority countries, Morocco predominantly practices Sunni Islam.
- Islamic Education: Emphasis on religious education and Quranic schools is common in Islamic societies.
Differences:
- Berber Influence: Unique to Morocco, the blending of Berber traditions with Islamic practices creates a distinctive cultural mosaic.
- Royal Patronage: The Moroccan Monarchy, being the “Commander of the Faithful”, holds a singular position in the interpretation and implementation of Islam in state affairs.
Synonyms and Antonyms
- Synonyms: Moroccan Islam, Maliki Jurisprudence, Sunni Orthodoxy
- Antonyms: Secular Moroccan Society
Related Terms
- Sidi Muhammad ibn Abd Allah: Influential reformer who impacted Islamic practices in Morocco.
- Mohammed Allal al-Fasi: Islamist leader who integrated reformist ideas within nationalist movements.
- Salafiyyah: Islamic movement emphasizing a return to the practices of the “salaf” (ancestors).
- al-Adl wa’l-Ihsan: “Justice and Charity Association,” an influential Moroccan Islamist organization.
Interesting Facts
- The Royal Library in Fez holds one of the largest collections of Islamic manuscripts in the world.
- Mohammed V, the grandfather of the current King of Morocco (Mohammed VI), was hailed for protecting Jews during Nazi Germany’s occupation of France.
Quotations
“Sidi Muhammad ibn Abd Allah’s relentless quest for a harmonized Islamic identity set the pace for a reformist Morocco deeply entrenched in its religious fabric.”
- Excerpt from Islamic Reformation in North Africa by Noor Hassan
Further Reading and References
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Books:
- “Islamic Reform in Morocco” by Muhammad Mahmoud
- “Islam and Politics in North Africa” by Edward Webb
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Articles:
- Webb, Edward. “Moroccan Islam and Political Reform.” The Journal of North African Studies, vol. 17, no. 2, 2012.
- Boutaleb, Ali. “al-Adl wa’l-Ihsan: Justice and Charity in the New Morocco.” Maghreb Review, March 2016.
Inspirational Thought
“As we delve into Morocco’s intricate weave of historical reform and spiritual fervor, we uncover more than just a religious narrative. It is a vibrant tapestry of resilience and identity that continue to shape its profound journey.”
