"We (also) want to contribute, in a rational and purposeful way, to redressing the image of Islam, which has been tarnished by vicious campaigns, triggered off by the extremism of villains and the hideous acts of senseless aggressors indulging in terrorism, a scourge which can in no way be ascribed to a specific country or religion."
-His Majesty King Mohammed VI, Speech before the Higher Council of Ulemas, April 30, 2004
Religion in Morocco: Foundations in Tolerance
-His Majesty King Mohammed VI, Speech before the Higher Council of Ulemas, April 30, 2004
Religion in Morocco: Foundations in Tolerance
- While Morocco is a Muslim nation, freedom of religion is a constitutional guarantee.
- Morocco welcomed Andalousians, Muslims and Jews fleeing the Inquisition in Europe and today provides an arena for open dialogue.
- The majority of Moroccans are Sunni Muslim, but they coexist peacefully with Christians and Jews. Morocco's legal code includes provisions for Jews to be governed under Hebraic Law.
Creation of the Council of the Ulemas
- On April 30, 2004, King Mohammed VI announced the establishment of the Council of the Ulemas, designed to oversee religious developments and teachings in Morocco and to preserve Moroccan Islam against extremism.
- One of the chief goals of the Council is to strive to preserve Morocco's national identity based on centuries of moderation and tolerance.
Provisions of the Religious Reforms
- The Supreme Council of Ulemas was created to train and educate citizens, highlighting sacred values of Islam and discouraging deviation that could lead to extremism. Women are invited to participate in this high council, which is an open forum for religious discussion - the first of its kind in the Arab world. The Supreme Council of Ulemas also works to fight illiteracy, primarily targeting illiterate rural women.
- Two directors were appointed for the Department of Islamic Affairs, to oversee traditional education and mosques, respectively.
- Regional delegates are being selected to run Islamic affairs locally, to make stronger connections with the people and to keep abreast of extremist movements. Women are eligible to hold these positions.
- The educational system is being revamped to include both traditional Islamic teaching and modern scientific training. Traditional curricula are being modernized to promote principles of openness toward other cultures.
