Superstition remains widespread in Morocco despite rising skepticism

Tuesday 17 - 12:54

By: Dakir Madiha

Superstition remains widespread in Morocco despite rising skepticism

Superstition continues to shape daily life in Morocco, even as skepticism grows among parts of the population. Many people rely on protective symbols such as blue beads, khamsa hands, and herbal rituals to guard against the evil eye, a belief that remains deeply rooted across society. A 2023 Sunergia survey found that 77 percent of Moroccans believe in this force, with the figure rising to 80 percent among young adults aged 18 to 24. At the same time, 96 percent rejected fortune-tellers and horoscopes, leaving trust in such practices at just 4 percent.

Belief in protective rituals cuts across income and location. Higher-income groups recorded adherence levels of 83 percent, while rural and urban populations showed similar rates at 74 percent and 78 percent respectively. Common practices include knocking on wood before taking risks and placing horseshoes above doorways. These customs trace back to pre-Islamic Berber and Arab traditions and have been integrated into contemporary religious and cultural life.

Belief in luck remains less dominant but still present, with 48 percent of respondents acknowledging its influence. This rises to 53 percent among those aged 55 to 64. Horoscope belief is limited to 10 percent overall and is largely concentrated among people over 65. Although no updated national surveys have been released since 2023, recent cultural trends on social media and at festivals in 2024 and 2025 suggest these patterns remain stable.

Authorities continue to confront exploitation linked to superstition. On March 15, 2026, police arrested a man in Anzegan accused of posing as a sorcerer. He was placed in custody in Ait Melloul following a prosecutor’s review. Officials note that economic hardship, including youth unemployment estimated at 22.5 percent, can increase vulnerability to fraudulent claims of quick solutions.

Online platforms have amplified both belief and criticism. Videos promoting alleged healers circulate widely on TikTok, while activists have used the same platforms since early 2025 to expose scams. Traditional practices also remain visible during events such as Ashura, where bonfires and chants are used to ward off spirits. Islamic teachings emphasize reliance on Quranic recitation, often discouraging the use of amulets.

Urbanization and education have reduced reliance on fortune-tellers, but family traditions continue to sustain many beliefs. Women often face stronger expectations to observe rituals during major life events such as childbirth and marriage. Economic pressures also drive visits to shrines or online spiritual services. Authorities have linked some cases of blackmail and violence to disputes between practitioners.

Law enforcement maintains oversight through arrests and public awareness campaigns. On March 9, 2026, the Directorate General of National Security dismissed circulating rumors of child abductions tied to superstition narratives. Moroccan law imposes penalties of up to five years in prison for promoting sorcery online, as seen in previous cases in Casablanca.

While education levels are associated with greater skepticism, superstition remains embedded in cultural identity. Many professionals balance inherited beliefs with rational decision-making in everyday life.