Berber, Senhaja in Morocco

Introduction / History

Most of what we read about the Senhaja Berbers begins after the arrival of Islam in 670. In the middle of the 1200s, a group of Senhaja Berber chiefs were returning from the Islamic hajj. They invited Ibn Yassin, a Muslim theologian, to preach to their tribes. These tribes became united as a confederacy, which helped to establish Morocco as a nation.

The Senhaja Berbers were once spread out throughout northwest and western Africa, in what today is Algeria, Morocco, Mauritania and Senegal. There is some dispute as to whether they are Berber or sub-Saharan African.

Today they are not so spread out, though they left their mark in a wide region of northern and western Africa. Most Senhaja Berbers are located in the Middle Atlas Mountains of Morocco. They have subtribes in other parts of this nation, most notably the small Zenaga tribe.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Most of the Senhaja Berbers are farmers or fishermen. Those who are higher up in status are Muslim teachers.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Almost 100 percent of the Senhaja Berbers are Sunni Muslim. Only about one in 1,000 are Christian of any kind.

What Are Their Needs?

The Senhaja Berbers need to humble themselves and accept the lordship of Jesus Christ. He is the only means of salvation and eternal life.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to send believers from other Berber tribes to the Senhaja people.
Pray for Senhaja elders and leaders to encounter the risen and victorious Christ.
Pray for a disciple making movement in each of the Senhaja groups.

Text Source:   Joshua Project