Tamkharit in Senegal

Tamkharit, also known as Ashura, is an important religious observance that takes place on the 10th day of Muharram, the first month in the Islamic lunar calendar. This day holds significance for both Sunni and Shia Muslims worldwide; however, it is celebrated with specific cultural traditions in Senegal.

History and Traditions

In Senegalese tradition, Tamkharit follows the Islamic commemoration of Ashura, which has historical roots associated with events surrounding the Prophet Moses and later, for Shia Muslims, the martyrdom of Hussein ibn Ali. In Senegal, a predominantly Sunni Muslim country, the day has been infused with local customs.

Activities on Tamkharit

• Fasting and Prayer: Some people observe fasting on this day as a means of spiritual reflection and purification.
• Feast Preparations: The most notable feature of Tamkharit in Senegal is the preparation of a special feast. The centerpiece dish is "Ceebu Ñax," which is made with millet or rice and served with meat or fish.
• Charitable Acts: Giving to the needy is emphasized during this time as an act of piety and communal solidarity.
• Commemorative Gatherings: Families and friends come together to pray and remember historical events associated with Ashura.
• Dressing Up: Children dress up in adult clothes as a lighthearted tradition where they go door-to-door singing songs for treats or small amounts of money – similar to trick-or-treating during Halloween.