Moroccan Society & Culture
Islam
Islam is practised by the majority of Moroccans and governs their personal, political, economic and legal lives. Islam emanated from what is today Saudi Arabia. The Prophet Muhammad is seen as the last of God's emissaries (following in the footsteps of Jesus, Moses, Abraham, etc) to bring revelation to mankind. He was distinguished with bringing a message for the whole of mankind, rather than just to a certain peoples. As Moses brought the Torah and Jesus the Bible, Muhammad brought the last book, the Quran. The Quran and the actions of the Prophet (the Sunnah) are used as the basis for all guidance in the religion.
Among certain obligations for Muslims are to pray five times a day - at dawn, noon, afternoon, sunset, and evening. The exact time is listed in the local newspaper each day. Friday is the Muslim holy day. Everything is closed. Many companies also close on Thursday, making the weekend Thursday and Friday.
During the holy month of Ramadan all Muslims must fast from dawn to dusk and are only permitted to work six hours per day. Fasting includes no eating, drinking, cigarette smoking, or gum chewing. Expatriates are not required to fast; however, they must not eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in public. Each night at sunset, families and friends gather together to celebrate the breaking of the fast (iftar). The festivities often continue well into the night. In general, things happen more slowly during Ramadan. Many businesses operate on a reduced schedule. Shops may be open and closed at unusual times.
The Concept of Shame - Hshuma
. Moroccans' most cherished possession is their honour and dignity, which reflects not only on themselves but on all members of their extended family.
. Moroccans will go out of their way to preserve their personal honour.
. Hshuma occurs when other people know that they have behaved inappropriately.
. A Moroccan's sense of self-worth is externally focused, so the way others see them is of paramount importance.
. If someone is shamed, they may be ostracized by society, or even worse by their family.
. To avoid hshuma, many Moroccans will say or do things publicly because it makes them look good or helps them avoid embarrassment or awkwardness.
. In business it is extremely important to verify anything that has been agreed to in front of others as it may not have been a sincere agreement and the person may have no intention of following through.
Moroccan Family Values
. The family is the most significant unit of Moroccan life and plays an important role in all social relations.
. The individual is always subordinate to the family or group.
. Nepotism is viewed positively, since it indicates patronage of one's family.
. The family consists of both the nuclear and the extended family.
. The elderly are revered and respected and often exert a great influence on the rest of the family.
Etiquette & Customs in Morocco
Meeting Etiquette
. When Moroccans greet each other they take their time and converse about their families, friends, and other general topics.
. Handshakes are the customary greeting between individuals of the same sex.
. Handshakes may be somewhat weak according to western standards.
. Once a relationship has developed, it is common to kiss on both cheeks, starting with the left cheek while shaking hands, men with men and women with women.
. In any greeting that does take place between men and women, the woman must extend her hand first. If she does not, a man should bow his head in greeting.
. When entering a social function, shake hands with the person to your right and then continue around the room going from right to left.
. Say good-bye to each person individually when leaving.
Gift Giving Etiquette
. If you are invited to a Moroccan's home bring sweet pastries, nuts, figs, dates or flowers to the hostess.
A small gift for the children s.
. Gifts are not opened when received.
Dining Etiquette
If you are invited to a Moroccan's house:
. You should remove your shoes.
. Dress smartly. Doing so demonstrates respect towards your hosts.
. Check to see if your spouse is included in the invitation. Conservative Moroccans may not entertain mixed-sex groups.
. Shake everyone's hand individually.
Watch your table manners!
. Food is generally served at a knee-high round table.
. The guest of honour generally sits next to the host.
. A washing basin will be brought to the table before the meal is served. Hold your hands over the basin while water is poured over them. Dry your hands on the towel provided.
. Do not begin eating until the host blesses the food or begins to eat.
. Food is served from a communal bowl.
. Eat from the section of the bowl that is in front of you. Never reach across the bowl to get something from the other side. As an honoured guest, choice cuts will be put in front of you.
. Scoop the food with a piece of bread or the thumb and first two fingers of the right hand.
. Eat and drink only with the right hand.
. Do not wipe your hands on your napkin.
. Water is often served from a communal glass. If you want your own glass, ask for a soft drink.
. The washing basin will be brought around the table again at the end of the meal.
. Expect to be urged to take more food off the communal plate. Providing an abundance of food is a sign of hospitality.
Etiquette in Morocco
Moroccan people are among the most hospitable people in the world. They are warm, open and make fast friends with everyone. It is not unlikely to receive an invitation to their home just moments after you meet them. However, Moroccans, like all other people have their customs and taboos. It is good to know how to interact with them and follow proper etiquette while moving about the country.
Moroccan Jelaba
Moroccan jelaba, jellaba or djellaba is a unique Moroccan item of clothing. It is worn in most Moroccan cities and towns by both men and women, and is basically a long, loose fitting hooded robe with full sleeves.
The jelaba is available in multiple colors and fabrics, and as can be expected, there are more choices for women who can select from a wide range of designs, colors and shapes. Styles also vary depending on region within Morocco. Married women in Morocco typically wear more conservative, less colorful jelabas than those worn by single women.
A white jelaba is the dress code for men during Friday prayers throughout the mosques and for special occasions such as marriage ceremonies and holidays celebrations. It is usually baggy with one plain color. Every single Jelaba includes a “cob” hood which is usually used for protection against rain, sun, and wind. Jelabas are made of cotton or coarse wool, which can be tailored to customer’s specification. As a result, tailors can be found in most neighborhoods in Morocco.
Moroccan Marriage
Introduction
In Morocco the marriage celebration includes several well organized ceremonies that can last from 3 days to a week, depending on the family and region of Morocco. These festivities are always the ideal opportunity to bring Moroccan families together and show the richness of Moroccan customs and traditions through clothing, art, music or cuisine which is represented via a cocktail of delicious dishes.
Moroccan women still attend in the traditional ways. The wedding dress is usually a caftan, a sort of long robe made of silk, satin, chiffon, silk or other rich fabrics, and covered with a jacket. The dress is often open on the bottom and may have embroidery or sequined details, and may be retained by a wide belt at the waist that adds a stunning touch to the moment.
Pre-Marriage Customs
The future bride and groom start formalities for the marriage about a year prior to the celebrations. Sometimes it is a simple agreement signed in the presence of witnesses and Adoul (Moroccan notary), but generally an act of formal marriage commitment is established in the presence of the family members of the couple. The husband is required to give gifts to his bride. Some gifts may be symbolic, such as sugar, which represents a happy life, or milk for purity or basic gifts which could include dates, water, orange flower and henna. They also include the engagement ring and the alliance. Gifts vary depending on the region of Morocco, and could range from jewelry and bolts of fabric, to caftans, shoes, handbags or perfume. These gifts are typically arranged in very large flat silver colored container and covered with a conical lid which is similar to the form of a big Tagine.
Two days before the wedding, customs require the bride to go to traditional Moroccan Hamam, sauna with her girl friends and relatives. It is considered as an act of purification, and accompanied by beautiful traditional songs performed by her friends.
The next ceremony will take place using the famous Moroccan Henna. Henna comes from a plant that can reach up to one meter in height, and its leaves produce yellow or red dyes which are often used for body paint to create different shapes and designs. At the ceremony a "Hennaya" , a professional Moroccan Henna artist, draws symbolic motifs on the hands and feet of the bride as a lucky charm for her new life. The brides friends and relatives who are involved in marriage will also get to have henna.
Moroccan Wedding Day
On the day of the wedding the ceremony begins with song and dance, the tradition of Islam demands the ceremony begin by reading Koranic verses and songs in praise of the prophet. Next the guests gather in a large room. The couple follow and the bride, dressed in a white caftan with matching jewelry, heads to a large chair "the Amariya” along with her groom. Four strong men carry the Amaria around the wedding room, so every guest gets to see and wish the couple happiness and good luck. After a few minutes of touring the large guest room, accompanied by music from a live traditional band, the couple is descended from Amariya to sit in two comfortable chairs strategically centered in the room, where wedding guests get to have their pictures taken with the couple.
Throughout the ceremony, the bride changes outfits, adorning a selection superb caftons justifying the reputation of Moroccan marriages. The bride can wear as many as seven different outfits, with the last wardrobe change, in general, a magnificent white wedding dress.
Neggafates: Moroccan wedding Master Planners
The bride is surrounded by "Neggafates" who are wedding master planners, since no wedding ceremony can occur without their presence. Their main task is to help with traditional Moroccan dresses, make up, jewelry, hair styling etc. Neggafates assist Moroccan couple to look their best in their wedding ceremony combining know-how about Moroccan wedding, style and fashion taste with an adequate traditional touch.
Moroccan weddings are also known for the variety of exotic Moroccan dishes, unique ingredients, and dedication by Moroccan chefs to pull them together. Different Moroccan dishes are served to wedding guests including pastille (a pie in puff pastry stuffed with a fricassee of pigeon or chicken, almonds, sugar and cinnamon), Mashwi (baby lamb), Tajine (stew meat with prunes and almonds), couscous, traditional pastries and Moroccan cookies all served with traditional mint tea. The guests dance from time to time to the rhythm of music, chat and connect with other guests and relatives. The ceremony usually ends at around 5am.
Islam
Islam is practised by the majority of Moroccans and governs their personal, political, economic and legal lives. Islam emanated from what is today Saudi Arabia. The Prophet Muhammad is seen as the last of God's emissaries (following in the footsteps of Jesus, Moses, Abraham, etc) to bring revelation to mankind. He was distinguished with bringing a message for the whole of mankind, rather than just to a certain peoples. As Moses brought the Torah and Jesus the Bible, Muhammad brought the last book, the Quran. The Quran and the actions of the Prophet (the Sunnah) are used as the basis for all guidance in the religion.
Among certain obligations for Muslims are to pray five times a day - at dawn, noon, afternoon, sunset, and evening. The exact time is listed in the local newspaper each day. Friday is the Muslim holy day. Everything is closed. Many companies also close on Thursday, making the weekend Thursday and Friday.
During the holy month of Ramadan all Muslims must fast from dawn to dusk and are only permitted to work six hours per day. Fasting includes no eating, drinking, cigarette smoking, or gum chewing. Expatriates are not required to fast; however, they must not eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in public. Each night at sunset, families and friends gather together to celebrate the breaking of the fast (iftar). The festivities often continue well into the night. In general, things happen more slowly during Ramadan. Many businesses operate on a reduced schedule. Shops may be open and closed at unusual times.
The Concept of Shame - Hshuma
. Moroccans' most cherished possession is their honour and dignity, which reflects not only on themselves but on all members of their extended family.
. Moroccans will go out of their way to preserve their personal honour.
. Hshuma occurs when other people know that they have behaved inappropriately.
. A Moroccan's sense of self-worth is externally focused, so the way others see them is of paramount importance.
. If someone is shamed, they may be ostracized by society, or even worse by their family.
. To avoid hshuma, many Moroccans will say or do things publicly because it makes them look good or helps them avoid embarrassment or awkwardness.
. In business it is extremely important to verify anything that has been agreed to in front of others as it may not have been a sincere agreement and the person may have no intention of following through.
Moroccan Family Values
. The family is the most significant unit of Moroccan life and plays an important role in all social relations.
. The individual is always subordinate to the family or group.
. Nepotism is viewed positively, since it indicates patronage of one's family.
. The family consists of both the nuclear and the extended family.
. The elderly are revered and respected and often exert a great influence on the rest of the family.
Etiquette & Customs in Morocco
Meeting Etiquette
. When Moroccans greet each other they take their time and converse about their families, friends, and other general topics.
. Handshakes are the customary greeting between individuals of the same sex.
. Handshakes may be somewhat weak according to western standards.
. Once a relationship has developed, it is common to kiss on both cheeks, starting with the left cheek while shaking hands, men with men and women with women.
. In any greeting that does take place between men and women, the woman must extend her hand first. If she does not, a man should bow his head in greeting.
. When entering a social function, shake hands with the person to your right and then continue around the room going from right to left.
. Say good-bye to each person individually when leaving.
Gift Giving Etiquette
. If you are invited to a Moroccan's home bring sweet pastries, nuts, figs, dates or flowers to the hostess.
A small gift for the children s.
. Gifts are not opened when received.
Dining Etiquette
If you are invited to a Moroccan's house:
. You should remove your shoes.
. Dress smartly. Doing so demonstrates respect towards your hosts.
. Check to see if your spouse is included in the invitation. Conservative Moroccans may not entertain mixed-sex groups.
. Shake everyone's hand individually.
Watch your table manners!
. Food is generally served at a knee-high round table.
. The guest of honour generally sits next to the host.
. A washing basin will be brought to the table before the meal is served. Hold your hands over the basin while water is poured over them. Dry your hands on the towel provided.
. Do not begin eating until the host blesses the food or begins to eat.
. Food is served from a communal bowl.
. Eat from the section of the bowl that is in front of you. Never reach across the bowl to get something from the other side. As an honoured guest, choice cuts will be put in front of you.
. Scoop the food with a piece of bread or the thumb and first two fingers of the right hand.
. Eat and drink only with the right hand.
. Do not wipe your hands on your napkin.
. Water is often served from a communal glass. If you want your own glass, ask for a soft drink.
. The washing basin will be brought around the table again at the end of the meal.
. Expect to be urged to take more food off the communal plate. Providing an abundance of food is a sign of hospitality.
Etiquette in Morocco
Moroccan people are among the most hospitable people in the world. They are warm, open and make fast friends with everyone. It is not unlikely to receive an invitation to their home just moments after you meet them. However, Moroccans, like all other people have their customs and taboos. It is good to know how to interact with them and follow proper etiquette while moving about the country.
Moroccan Jelaba
Moroccan jelaba, jellaba or djellaba is a unique Moroccan item of clothing. It is worn in most Moroccan cities and towns by both men and women, and is basically a long, loose fitting hooded robe with full sleeves.
The jelaba is available in multiple colors and fabrics, and as can be expected, there are more choices for women who can select from a wide range of designs, colors and shapes. Styles also vary depending on region within Morocco. Married women in Morocco typically wear more conservative, less colorful jelabas than those worn by single women.
A white jelaba is the dress code for men during Friday prayers throughout the mosques and for special occasions such as marriage ceremonies and holidays celebrations. It is usually baggy with one plain color. Every single Jelaba includes a “cob” hood which is usually used for protection against rain, sun, and wind. Jelabas are made of cotton or coarse wool, which can be tailored to customer’s specification. As a result, tailors can be found in most neighborhoods in Morocco.
Moroccan Marriage
Introduction
In Morocco the marriage celebration includes several well organized ceremonies that can last from 3 days to a week, depending on the family and region of Morocco. These festivities are always the ideal opportunity to bring Moroccan families together and show the richness of Moroccan customs and traditions through clothing, art, music or cuisine which is represented via a cocktail of delicious dishes.
Moroccan women still attend in the traditional ways. The wedding dress is usually a caftan, a sort of long robe made of silk, satin, chiffon, silk or other rich fabrics, and covered with a jacket. The dress is often open on the bottom and may have embroidery or sequined details, and may be retained by a wide belt at the waist that adds a stunning touch to the moment.
Pre-Marriage Customs
The future bride and groom start formalities for the marriage about a year prior to the celebrations. Sometimes it is a simple agreement signed in the presence of witnesses and Adoul (Moroccan notary), but generally an act of formal marriage commitment is established in the presence of the family members of the couple. The husband is required to give gifts to his bride. Some gifts may be symbolic, such as sugar, which represents a happy life, or milk for purity or basic gifts which could include dates, water, orange flower and henna. They also include the engagement ring and the alliance. Gifts vary depending on the region of Morocco, and could range from jewelry and bolts of fabric, to caftans, shoes, handbags or perfume. These gifts are typically arranged in very large flat silver colored container and covered with a conical lid which is similar to the form of a big Tagine.
Two days before the wedding, customs require the bride to go to traditional Moroccan Hamam, sauna with her girl friends and relatives. It is considered as an act of purification, and accompanied by beautiful traditional songs performed by her friends.
The next ceremony will take place using the famous Moroccan Henna. Henna comes from a plant that can reach up to one meter in height, and its leaves produce yellow or red dyes which are often used for body paint to create different shapes and designs. At the ceremony a "Hennaya" , a professional Moroccan Henna artist, draws symbolic motifs on the hands and feet of the bride as a lucky charm for her new life. The brides friends and relatives who are involved in marriage will also get to have henna.
Moroccan Wedding Day
On the day of the wedding the ceremony begins with song and dance, the tradition of Islam demands the ceremony begin by reading Koranic verses and songs in praise of the prophet. Next the guests gather in a large room. The couple follow and the bride, dressed in a white caftan with matching jewelry, heads to a large chair "the Amariya” along with her groom. Four strong men carry the Amaria around the wedding room, so every guest gets to see and wish the couple happiness and good luck. After a few minutes of touring the large guest room, accompanied by music from a live traditional band, the couple is descended from Amariya to sit in two comfortable chairs strategically centered in the room, where wedding guests get to have their pictures taken with the couple.
Throughout the ceremony, the bride changes outfits, adorning a selection superb caftons justifying the reputation of Moroccan marriages. The bride can wear as many as seven different outfits, with the last wardrobe change, in general, a magnificent white wedding dress.
Neggafates: Moroccan wedding Master Planners
The bride is surrounded by "Neggafates" who are wedding master planners, since no wedding ceremony can occur without their presence. Their main task is to help with traditional Moroccan dresses, make up, jewelry, hair styling etc. Neggafates assist Moroccan couple to look their best in their wedding ceremony combining know-how about Moroccan wedding, style and fashion taste with an adequate traditional touch.
Moroccan weddings are also known for the variety of exotic Moroccan dishes, unique ingredients, and dedication by Moroccan chefs to pull them together. Different Moroccan dishes are served to wedding guests including pastille (a pie in puff pastry stuffed with a fricassee of pigeon or chicken, almonds, sugar and cinnamon), Mashwi (baby lamb), Tajine (stew meat with prunes and almonds), couscous, traditional pastries and Moroccan cookies all served with traditional mint tea. The guests dance from time to time to the rhythm of music, chat and connect with other guests and relatives. The ceremony usually ends at around 5am.