Seeing a Christmas Tree and Menorah Together Reminded Me of Senegal
I spent this holiday season in Miami and on New Years Day, I passed by a beautifully decorated Christmas tree standing proudly beside a menorah. It struck me as more than just festive decor — it was a symbol of peaceful coexistence. Two faiths, two traditions, side by side.
This made me think of Senegal, the country in West Africa where I have had a home, and where I have been running retreats for more than a decade.
Senegal is a country that embodies peaceful religious coexistence. Although 92% of its population is Muslim, the country has a long history of mutual respect between Muslims and Christians. 6% of the population practice traditional religions, and there is even a small Jewish community of about 50 people.
The constitution provides for freedom of religious beliefs and self-governance by religious groups without outside interference. And it’s a nation where people of different faiths live together, celebrate together, and support each other’s traditions.
But it goes even deeper than that. Senegal’s name itself tells a powerful story.
The word Senegal derives from "Senu Gal" — "Senu" meaning "everyone" and "Gal" meaning "pirogue" (a traditional boat). The name literally means “We are all in the same boat together.”
That simple phrase captures the very essence of the country. It’s not just a name — it’s a way of life.
A History of Religious Harmony
What’s remarkable about Senegal is that religious identity is never a source of division. While religion has fueled wars and conflicts across much of the world, in Senegal it brings people together.
Senegal has had both Muslim and Christian presidents — something that would be unthinkable in many other countries. Political leadership isn’t defined by religious affiliation, but by a shared vision for the country’s future.
For example, Léopold Sédar Senghor, Senegal’s first president after independence, was a Catholic in a predominantly Muslim country. He led Senegal for two decades, and his presidency remains one of the most celebrated in the country's history.
That kind of leadership sets the tone for peaceful coexistence at every level of society. It shows that religion is not a barrier to leadership or unity.
Separating Religion from Politics
As I reflected on symbols of different faiths standing side by side—a menorah, a Christmas tree, and a crescent moon—I realized there’s an important distinction we need to make: the difference between religious identity and political ideologies.
Religions such as Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and various indigenous spiritual traditions are ancient paths that encompass faith, cultural identity, and community. They offer meaning and connection to millions of people. However, political movements and nationalistic ideologies often intertwine with religion in ways that can complicate how we perceive faith communities.
We need to separate religion from political ideologies. This distinction is important because when we conflate the two, we create unnecessary divisions. Being part of a faith tradition has nothing to do with political agendas. Faith is deeply personal and spiritual, while politics often involve geopolitical goals that are separate from the core tenets of these religions.
In Senegal, this separation happens naturally. People don’t see each other as political symbols — they see each other as neighbours, friends, and fellow human beings. All religions in Senegal are welcomed, respected, and embraced, despite global tensions elsewhere.
A Model for Peaceful Coexistence
Religious conflict has been responsible for millions of deaths throughout history. The World Economic Forum reports that religious violence remains one of the leading causes of conflict worldwide.
Yet in Senegal, religion is a unifying force. How?
The answer lies in a core cultural value: “Teranga.”
The Senegalese word “Teranga” means hospitality, generosity, and community spirit. It’s more than just a word — it’s a way of life. It’s about opening your home and heart to others, regardless of their background.
Senegal shows that peaceful coexistence isn’t about erasing differences — it’s about embracing them.
This kind of unity is possible when we focus on what connects us instead of what divides us.
What Will It Take for the World to Change?
Seeing that Christmas tree and menorah together made me ask: What will it take for the rest of the world to achieve this kind of peaceful coexistence?
Religion has been a source of war and division for centuries. But Senegal proves it doesn’t have to be. Imagine a world where faiths and traditions stood side by side — not just in festive displays, but in everyday life.
In May 2025, I’ll be leading a retreat to Senegal, where we’ll experience this spirit of belonging and togetherness firsthand. It’s not just a trip — it’s a chance to feel what true unity looks like in a country that embodies it.
Senegal’s very name reminds us of this lesson: We are all in the same boat together.
The question is — when will the rest of the world realise it?