Rabat – Hundreds of Moroccan Jews from around the world are gathering in Morocco’s coastal city, Essaouira, to celebrate the annual four-day event of Hiloula from September 14 to 17.
Moroccan Jews meets annually in Essaouira in order to pray on the grave of Rabbi Haim Pinto on the anniversary of his death in the Jewish Cemetery of the city.
Also known as Chaim Pinto, Haim Pinto, was the most respected religious leader in the history of Jews. He was the leading rabbi in the seaport city of Essaouira.
The event attracts annually more than 1,500 Moroccan Jews pilgrims from North America, Latin America and Europe in order to celebrate peace, tolerance and peaceful coexistence, according to reported Maghreb Arab Press (MAP).
An official ceremony was held on Thursday evening, in the presence of Jamal Makhtatar, provincial governor and other officials.
Rabbi David Pinto said that this milestone event of the Moroccan Jewish community is an “opportunity for its members to reaffirm their strong relationship with their motherland, Morocco.” He added that the event also aims to instill the sense of belonging in the youth generations.
“This country belongs to all of us, let us cherish it, let us defend it, let us never forget it,” added David Pinto.
He went on to add that Morocco is a “blessed and splendid land, where all religions coexist in a notable conviviality and mutual respect.”
Makhtatar pointed out the importance of this annual meeting, which highlights the attachment of Moroccan Jews to their country of origin, adding that coexistence and tolerance have been always the fundamental values that underpin the uniqueness of the kingdom.
