The Talibe

In Arabic talibe means “one who seeks and asks” in Senegal it also has another meaning. It is the word that represents young boys who are given to an Islamic leader, a marabout, by their parents for a Koranic education. Once in the care of a marabout these boys are taught humility through begging and people who give are upholding one of the five pillars of Islam, Zakat or the giving of alms. Unfortunately the talibe boys end up begging for 10 or more during the day. If they do not bring back enough money the are then beaten. If you are interested you can read more here and here.

We had a chance to work with a group of Talibe. We cleaned them, medicated their wounds (most are infected with scabies) and then gave them clothes that we brought with us. These young children are the only people I saw while visiting Senegal that are truely impoverished, yet there spirit was not broken. It was a blessing to be able to work for them.

Here are two talibe with some new clothes (note the T-shirt of the boy on the right)


And another group.