Importance of Religion

Senegal has been settled and heavily influenced by the Arabic nation coming from East Africa. As in many cultures, religious beliefs strongly impact the everyday lives of the people here, and so you see the Islamic faith deeply rooted in the people and in the culture.

Ideas of non-violence, peace and hospitality are at the heart of the people in Sénégal. A sense of community and sharing amongst each other is a way of life here. These ideas are all emphasized in the Quran.

As an outsider, not only of nationality, but of religion, I have been welcomed with open arms, and absolutely no judgment nor trace of hopes to convert me. I am so impressed by the people of Senegal.

When you have the privilege of traveling to a Muslim country, you have the privilege of hearing the call to prayer multiple times throughout the day. Sometimes it awakens me at 5 AM, but it is a calming, gentle way to awaken. His voice, speaking a language, unknown to myself, calls the people of faith to take time to turn one’s mind, body and spirit toward God. 

Throughout the day, this call is proclaimed from towers in mosques across the city. I have been so thoroughly impressed watching people who stop, kneel, facing eastward, and pray, even while on the sidewalk, or in their place of work. 

You will also see these small kettles scattered about. Before praying, it seems that one must be cleansed. You will see groups of people, even on the street, and in the markets, pouring water on their hands to wash their hands and their faces before they take time to pray.

While it certainly is not every woman, many women here do wear a hijab. These hijabs are worn with pride and grace and only add to the colorful arrays that can be found in Senegalese fashion. Some flow more freely, while others are penned up tightly. 

The devotion of the Senegalese people is one more reason to be even more impressed with these kind hearted people.