I want to go to Morocco really bad.

Vanessa Hudgens

For the past little while, I’ve been adventuring around Morocco! This beautiful country has so much to offer, from world famous ancient markets, to snowcapped mountains, to beautiful beaches, to the outskirts of the Sahara Desert, and more! It is ruled by a monarchy, one of the oldest in the world. Arabic and French are the two main languages here; Arabic because it is an Islamic state, French because the country was under French control until the twentieth century. From my time being here, I’ve experienced first hand the wonderful acceptance and love that Moroccans feel for all people, especially those that are different than them. There are just a few facts I’d love to share that have taught me a lot about interfaith community.

Morocco’s architecture is some of the most distinct and beautiful in the world. I was surprised when all of our tour guides pointed out the multiple influences from other countries that can be seen in these works of art. Even at this beautiful madrasa, one of the world’s first universities and a hub for the Islamic world, Moroccans themselves are quick to see the Greek, Roman, Egyptian, Spanish, Middle Eastern, Arab, and many other influences. I love that the diverse inspirations don’t detract from the art. Instead, the art becomes more beautiful because there are so many elements coming together in it.

Though very little Jews live in Morocco today, the Jewish history of the country is astounding and long. To everyone, Jews and non-Jews alike, it is important to keep Jewish life alive here. One way that this is accomplished is by some different standards than other Jewish communities. For example, in Morocco, Muslim men can stand in to make a full minyan of ten men, when a group of ten Jewish men is typically required to do this type of prayer. I think it’s amazing that Muslim men would be willing to step in for this important prayer, and that Jews may be willing to include their spiritual neighbors. It made me wonder how I can better involve people of other faiths in my spiritual life.

During World War II, the Nazis asked King Mohammad V for the number of Jews in Morocco. However, the king refused to give them the number, saying that he had no Jews, but Moroccans only. The king was exiled because he acted against the Nazis, but today, the sentiment he shared has become the attitude of many Moroccans. They see, respect, and even rejoice in their religious differences because above all else, they are neighbors and friends.

How would you see religion if you saw others as your friends?

Minyan

Quorum. Group of ten or more Jewish adults (over the age of 13). In more Orthodox branches, all must be male. Necessary for certain prayers in services. 

“Minyan: The Congregational Quorum.” My Jewish Learning. (https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/minyan-the-congregational-quorum/)