Touba

Religion is an integral part of the Senegalese culture. It permeates all facets of life and serves as a strong foundation for people's everyday actions. It is something I have been continually exposed to over my first few months here. Five times per day, the call to prayer blasts fourth from large speakers mounted on every mosque in the neighborhood. While walking home, I often pass several mosques at prayer time. Crowds of praying people spill out from the overflowing mosques into side alleyways and across the sidewalk. 

The prevalence of Islam is even ingrained in everyday conversations. It's no surprise that Senegal's population is 95 percent muslim when the most common greeting is in fact Arabic for "peace be with you." Religion is a common thread that holds together the fabric of many Senegalese communities. It serves as a guide for people's everyday interactions, providing principles that are now deeply ingrained in the culture.

Last weekend our group traveled to Touba, which is home to the largest mosque, and the most influential brotherhood in Senegal. It's magnificence and beauty is unmatched by anything I have seen here. Millions of people throng to Touba during the great pilgrimage of Magal, which happened to be last Thursday. This is yet another testament to the dedication people have to what they believe in. Faith is a binding force that holds together the vast majority of citizens here; it is a source of unity and a stronghold of hope.