Arab, Lebanese in Morocco

Introduction / History

The Levantine Arabs historically lived in a region called "the Levant". This includes Cyprus, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine and Syria. Originally speakers of Aramaic and followers of Canaanite culture and language, the Levantine Arabs gradually came to speak Arabic and to practice Islam for the most part. They speak Levantine Arabic, which differs greatly from the forms of Arabic spoken in North African countries like Morocco.

Today, large populations can be found worldwide. A surprisingly large percentage of them are found in the Western Hemisphere, especially in Brazil, the U.S., Canada and Mexico as well as perhaps in every other Latin American country. A substantial number live in African countries including Morocco.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Unlike their Moroccan Arab neighbors, Lebanese Arabs do not have a Berber influence in their culture and language. Lebanese Arabs in Morocco often live in villages located near fertile regions; but they can also be found near mountain foothills in less arid regions. Their villages are ruled by sheiks (Arab chiefs that are considered to be experts in Islam and in relating to the outside world).

Social life is extremely important to Lebanese Arabs in Morocco. They like to share a daily coffee time by sitting on the floor and drinking coffee from cups without handles. Their diet basically consists of wheat bread and porridge made with boiled meat or chicken.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Though there is a strong Christian minority, most Lebanese Arabs are Sunni Muslims. Islam has greatly influenced the lives of both Moroccan and Lebanese Arabs. To preserve their people, they are only allowed to marry those inside their own group. Lebanese Arab society is patrilineal, which means that inheritances are passed down through the males. In this system, boys inherit more than girls. Since children are considered a family's greatest asset, females are valued for their ability to bear children.

What Are Their Needs?

A Muslim who professes faith in Jesus Christ can lose his family, his honor, his job or even his life. Intercession is the key to reaching them with the gospel.

Prayer Points

Pray that God will raise up faithful intercessors who will stand in the gap for the Levantine Arabs.
Ask the Lord to call people who are willing to reach out and share the love of Christ with them.
Ask God to give Lebanese Arab believers opportunities to share the love of Christ with their own people.
Pray that their traditional Muslim culture will soften, creating open doors for the gospel.
Ask the Lord to raise up strong local churches that will plant other churches in Morocco.

Text Source:   Joshua Project