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Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:Urbanizing mystical Islam: making Murid space in the cities of Senegal
Author:Babou, Cheikh Anta MbackéISNI
Year:2007
Periodical:International Journal of African Historical Studies
Volume:40
Issue:2
Pages:197-223
Language:English
Geographic term:Senegal
Subjects:Muslim brotherhoods
Islamization
urbanization
space
External link:https://www.jstor.org/stable/40033911
Abstract:The Murid 'tariqa' (a Muslim mystical order, also referred to as Muridiyya), founded by Amadu Bamba Mbakke in rural Senegal in the late 19th century, is experiencing a steady process of urbanization. In order to discover its cultural and political implications, this paper investigates the impact of Murid expansion in urban areas, especially as it relates to the use of public space. It focuses on Saint-Louis and Dakar. The paper argues that Murid awareness of their increasingly dominant position in the demographic make up and economy of Saint-Louis and Dakar is being translated into an enterprise to reshape the historical memory of these two cities. The project is carried out through the organization of religious commemorations, the discovery of new Murid holy sites, the renaming of streets and neighbourhoods, and a variety of other cultural practices. Through this endeavour, Murid disciples seek to legitimize and naturalize their newly-earned power in urban Senegal. The paper also pays attention to the attempts by locals to contain Murid influence and preserve the identity of what they see as their ancestral land. Notes, ref. [ASC Leiden abstract]
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