Moors in Morocco

The term "Moor" is generally used for people who speak one of the Hassaniya dialects, and they are located throughout much of West Africa, although most of them live in Morocco. The three million Moroccan Moors have four basic class divisions, the two upper classes of the White Moors making up 2/3 of the group, and the Black Moors which make up the two lower classes. Occasionally White Moors continue the old traditions and hold Black Moors as their slaves.

Although the Moors were largely a nomadic people, today, most of them are either semi-nomadic cattle and camel herders or subsistence farmers. Another segment work in urban areas, which has disrupted traditional family life. With the desire for a better life, some Moors join other Moroccans in risking their lives to illegally travel in tiny ships to nearby Spain.

The majority are Muslim, yet they often mix their Islamic practices with magic, sorcery, and occultism. Charms and amulets are sold to protect the people from evil spirits, and prayers are said to chase evil spirits away and to prevent curses.

While some Christian resources are available to them, there is no Scripture in their own language. There are some mission agencies targeting the Moors, unfortunately, there has been little response, and as yet, there are no known Christians among them. We do praise God for a widespread and growing interest in the Gospel among Moroccans – may this desire spread to the the minority Moors.