Tanzh

Tanzh refers to a variety of traditions and practices associated with the Gnawa people, a spiritual community with origins in West Africa, particularly in Morocco. Gnawa music is a central element of tanzh, characterized by its hypnotic rhythms, call-and-response vocals, and the use of the sintir, a three-stringed lute. The music is often performed during spiritual ceremonies and healing rituals.

The practices involved in tanzh often include trance-like states achieved through music and chanting. These states are believed to facilitate spiritual connection and healing. The ceremonies, known as lila or derdeba, are communal gatherings where participants engage in music, dance, and prayer. These events are significant cultural and religious expressions for the Gnawa community.

The Gnawa people and their traditions, including tanzh, have a history rooted in the descendants of enslaved people brought from sub-Saharan Africa to Morocco. Over centuries, they developed a unique syncretic culture, blending African spiritual beliefs with Islamic Sufism. Today, Gnawa music and tanzh practices are recognized for their cultural significance and are a vital part of Morocco's rich heritage. There is ongoing effort to preserve and promote these traditions.