Female Spiritual Guides (Mourchidates) in Morocco: Agents of Change or State Tools? A Case Study of Khenifra

The female spiritual guides (Mourchidates) program was introduced as a state strategy to promote moderate Islam and fight extremist ideologies. Their role can be seen as dual in promoting gender equality as well as reinforcing traditional gender norms through providing religious guidance to women in mosques and other institutions. Within the Mourchidates one-year training, the new Family Code (Moudawana) is taught to pave the way for addressing gender-related issues in the light of Islamic teachings. The current study examines the role of Mourchidates in acting as gender equality leaders or traditional gender roles reinforcers in Khenifra City, Morocco. This research employs a qualitative research design. Date collection was based on semi-structured interviews with seventeen Mourchidates recruited within the Local Scientific Council of Khenifra, supported by participant observation in mosque settings. Thematic analysis was utilized to analyze and interpret the collected data. The findings demonstrate that Mourchidates play a paradoxical role. While they empower women through religious counseling and legal awareness under the Family Code, they also reinforce traditional gender roles, addressing cautiously sensitive gender issues and equality topics. This study aims to assist policy makers in Morocco in making the Mourchidates agents of change and giving them some reasonable freedom to go beyond the guidebook and address gender issues with confidence. Key words: Mourchidates, religious reform, female religious leaders, gender issues, Morocco.