Amazigh or Arab: keep tolerance!

Amazigh or Arab: keep tolerance!

One of the issues that attract a lot of debate in Morocco when brought to conversation is “Tamazight”. From the question of race, identity, culture, to alphabets in which the language should be written in, and the right of “Amazigh” people to hear and use their language in public administrations as well the use of “Tamazight” in Moroccan school.

“Tamazight” was, still and will always be one of the hot and complicated subjects for it is a vital element of Moroccan identity. And as any controversial subjects with many ramifications, everyone tackles it from an angle and defends his point of view but sometimes ignore the other’s even if it may contain certain truth.

The debate intensifies more between “Arabs” and “Amazighs” and in many cases raises conflict especially when fanatics from both sides come together. And everyone tries to intimidate the other and exclude his right of existence particularly when they enter in race discussions, and who is from where, and who has the right in Morocco?

For some “Arabs”, and insist on some because not all of them has this view, “Tamazight” is only a primitive language and culture that has no value in the 21st century, and there is no benefit to knowing about it or the culture of “Amazigh”. And those who defend ideology goes so far and see it as a threat for “Arabic”, the holly language of Quran, and that it might be also a threat for Islam. And of course, it’s only an ideological use of “Arabic” for some goals and gains and has nothing with reality. From when Arabic language is necessary to be a Muslim, if it was, most of Asian people wouldn’t have been Muslims, but they are. Defending “Tamazight”, language and culture, has never been against Islam. And for “Amazigh” people haters, and they are numerous, I just tell them where we can take the bulk of Moroccan society if you don’t like them?

For some “Amazigh” fanatics that see “Arabs” as enemies, I also ask them the question where can we take those you think are “enemies” away from you? They have the right to exist as you think you have, and if some of “Arabs” really have hurt “Amazighs” and “Tamazight” and some of them still and will always fight their right of existence fiercely, but not all of them do. And hatred you might harbor toward “Arabs” if not harm the cause you are defending, will never serve it.

To be objective, “Tamazight” has suffered for long, and it has sustained a lot of prevention, and now it’s not bad if it gets some care, and its constitutionalization in the late constitution is just the entrance, and a lot of work still needed.

I’m an “Amazigh” and I have a lot of “Arab” friends and never judge them by their origins. And when I want to defend “Tamazight”, I never defend race because in Morocco, few could be completely sure of their origins, and absolutely be certain if they are pure Amazigh or pure Arab, but I defend culture and language no matter what your roots are.  We have to accept each other with different langue and culture, and this tolerance is something we have to keep in mind when dealing with anyone different from us, whether he is “Arab”, “Amazigh” or whoever.




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Moroccan Art

Moroccan Art

Moroccan art is very rich and diverse. Moroccans have safe guarded its techniques and traditions for centuries.



The Neolithic period is a milestone in building the Kingdom of Morocco. In fact, immigration from everywhere and thoughout history has brought up a rich tradition of Moroccan art and craft.

Eventhough I grew up with a lot of these pieces around me in the house, in restaurants, mosques and almost everywhere I went, I had not estemated its precious value and artistic beauty untill I grew up and traveled overseas for an extended period.

My longing for home sweet home has stirred unexpected dazzlement and particular interest in Moroccan art, initially when I took a color and design class in college and then when I worked on various interior design projects in new york.



Now, every time I go to Morocco I find myself compelled to buy my next precious piece. I am into jewelry. what are you into?

Moroccan Woodworking.

Moroccan Carpets.

Moroccan Leather.

Moroccan Jewelry.

Moroccan Metalwork.

Moroccan Pottery.

Today, the past, old traditions and the diversity of the Moroccan people and its culture have given birth to the richness of Moroccan craft which has more than 70 trades and a surprising diversity of designs and materials which are used: wool, leather, wood, sorrel, alfa, the dom, clay, stone, marble, copper, iron, silver, gold, iron ...


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Moroccan Arts and Culture

Moroccan Arts and Culture



The almost medieval-like hustle and bustle of Morocco is for most travelers a world away from their own cities and towns. The culture and people are usually so completely different from what they know that they often find themselves in situations to which they have no idea how to react. The following brief explanation of Moroccan art and culture is designed to help you get the most out of your stay in this amazing country.

Art
The art of this country is truly special. Many historical examples are on display at the local museums. More modern examples are on display at art galleries and in souks. Beware of cheap imitations though!

There are so many different ways that the people express themselves – in carpets, clothing, jewelry, ceramics, sculpture, painting, carving, and calligraphy. They even hold an international art festival once a year to showcase all their talent. If you ever have the opportunity to visit this country, you should consider buying some of the local artwork. Not only will it provide you with a little memento of your trip, but it will help out the local people who are usually quite poor.

Culture
Souks are a way of life in Morocco and you usually wont have to go far to find one. You can often get good bargains here, but remember that most Moroccans will have a lot more experience than you will when it comes to haggling the price so you will seldom find yourself able to get better than that which is offered.

You may find, if you are friendly and courteous enough, that you will soon start to make friends with the locals. If this happens and you are invited to a meal, it is good to keep in mind some of the local customs. For example, you will usually take off your shoes when entering a house. You can follow your host’s example in this regard. Also it is a good idea to take a gift of some sort with. If you are in a home in the city you might take some pastries or some sugar with you. If you are in the county it would be better to buy a live chicken for the household which is likely to not be quite so well off. A home invitation is perhaps the most authentic way to sample Moroccan dishes. Most Moroccan food is eaten with the hands. If you are invited to join someone for a meal, you should always eat with the right hand as the left is supposed to be used for the toilet.

Any plans to visit mosques will usually meet with failure as these are considered to be very holy places that only Muslims are allowed access to. Though this is allowed in other parts of the world, the closest you will likely get to the inside of a mosque in Morocco is if you visit some ruins or disused mosques such as Tin Mal and Smara. Most other monuments are on view to the public for a price and you can also observe certain celebrations such as the Imichal wedding Fair.

When taking photographs of the local people, it would be wisest to ask their permission. Taking a photograph of someone with out their permission – especially in rural areas – can cause offense. This may result in them demanding money from you – even if you only intended to take a scenic shot of something. In contrast, taking photographs of someone you have become friendly with is usually very welcome. Often people with whom you’ve become acquainted will take you to a place where they can get a photograph taken with you for themselves. You should not be unfriendly about this as it usually does not result in you paying for the picture or any further harassment.

Traditionally the men take to the streets and the women are in control of their homes. This means that you will not often find woman in cafés or restaurants. If you are a woman and you strike up a friendship, you will likely be invited to the person’s home or to a hamman (bath) for further association. On the other hand, if you are a man or a man and woman traveling together, you will likely be invited into a café for some tea or a meal.

In general, Moroccan culture can be an exiting and worldly experience. The people are friendly and the place is colorful. Hospitality is really a part of their culture so you can strike up friendships virtually anywhere if you have the right attitude. Usually this results in further association with these dynamic and interesting people and a real taste of Moroccan life.



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