marabouts

Marabouts are spiritual leaders and healers in West Africa, particularly in Senegal, Gambia, and Mauritania. They are often associated with Sufi Islam and are believed to possess baraka, a divine blessing or spiritual power that can be transmitted through lineage or through their spiritual practices. Marabouts are highly respected in their communities and are sought after for their advice, prayers, and amulets.

These spiritual guides often have formal Islamic training but also incorporate traditional African beliefs and practices into their healing methods. They may perform rituals, recite prayers, and create talismans or amulets believed to offer protection, good fortune, or healing from illness. The influence of marabouts extends beyond religious matters, often playing significant roles in politics and social affairs. Their authority is rooted in their perceived spiritual efficacy and their ability to mediate between the human and divine realms. The term "marabout" itself is derived from the Arabic word "murabit," meaning a devoted warrior of Islam or a hermit.