Sufism, Mahdism and Nationalism - Limamou Laye and the Layennes of Senegal

Limamou Laye, an Islamic leader from present-day Senegal, has proclaimed himself the reincarnation of Muhammad, with his son later proclaiming himself to be a reincarnation of Jesus Christ. Limamou Laye established a tariqa, or Sufi organization, based upon his claims and the miracles attributed to him. This study analyzes Limamou Laye's goals for his community, his theology; as well as the various elements - both local and global - that created him and helped him to emerge as a religious leader of significance. This book also explores how the growth of Islamic communities in Senegambia stems from an evolving conflict between the traditional governments and the emerging Islamic communities. Douglas H. Thomas demonstrates that Sufism was the obvious vehicle for the growth of Islam among West Africans, striking a chord with indigenous cultures through an engagement with the spirit world which pre-Islamic Senegambian religions were primarily concerned with.Table of Content1. Islam in Senegal; 2. The Lebu; 3. Libasse Chaw/Limamou Laye: Early Life; 4. Limamou Laye and His Mission; 5. Seydina Issa Rohou Laye; 6. Senegalese Islam; Bibliography; Index.Review QuoteThis lucidly written book is a must read for undergraduate and graduate students of the history of Islam in Africa.Review QuoteThis beautifully written book depicts vividly how Mahdi, Sufism and Lebu Nationalism converged in the Western corner of Senegal, producing a fascinating and captivating history of a movement. Its publication will provide fresh ideas, new perspective and an original interpretation of how Africans indigenized Islam to their local conditions.Biographical NoteDouglas Thomas is Assistant Professor of History at Grambling State University, USA.Historical exploration of the Sufi Layenne sect and its place in the broader history of Islam in Senegambia.Discusses the localization of global Islam, also discussing the negotiation of Arab chauvinism in Islam.Contextualises European colonization within the longer history of West Africa.Analyzes a previously unexamined Sufi sect and emphasises the tendency toward religious tolerance in Senegambia.Illustrates the visual products of the Layennes and their importance to the sect's practice.