A Cultural Journey Through Time
Culture
The Traditions of the Jews of Morocco
Moroccan Jewish culture grew from two roots: the toshavim, Jews who had lived in Morocco since ancient times, and the megorashim, refugees from Spain and Portugal. Families spoke Judeo Arabic, Haketia (a Judeo Spanish language of the north), Berber languages in the mountains, and later French.
Moroccan Jews are known for their joyful celebrations: the Mimouna festival at the end of Passover, when homes open to neighbors and tables are covered with sweets and mufleta; henna ceremonies before weddings; and hilloulot, pilgrimages to the tombs of righteous rabbis such as Rabbi Haim Pinto in Essaouira. Music, from Andalusian classical music to the songs of Zohra El Fassia and Samy Elmaghribi, is part of every celebration.
Today, Moroccan Jewish culture thrives in Israel, France, Canada, and the Americas, and in Morocco itself, where synagogues and heritage sites are being restored. JIMENA shares these traditions through programs, oral histories, and education.
Explore further
Keep exploring
Key dates in the history of the Jews of Morocco, at a glance. |
The story of the Jews of Morocco, from ancient times to today. |
Watch Moroccan Jews tell their own stories. |
Dishes for Shabbat, holidays, and every day, and the stories behind them. |
Books on the Jews of Morocco → Histories, memoirs, novels, and children's books in JIMENA's library. |
Policies
Timeline of Jewish Presence
