The Harari People: History And Culture

Far beyond the Ethiopian highlands lies the ancient, walled city of Harar, often celebrated as “The Saint’s City.” The Harari people preserve one of Africa’s most vibrant cultural and religious traditions within this city’s storied walls. Harar’s rich history, spiritual significance, and enduring heritage make it a beacon of resilience and identity. Let us explore the story of the Harari people—a narrative that intertwines nature, religion, and cultural preservation, all safeguarded within their historic walls.

Origin

The origins of the Harari people trace back to the ancient Harla civilisation, a community recognised for its remarkable skills in trade and construction. Known as the “Builders of the Stone Cities,” the Harla left behind architectural landmarks that continue to echo their ingenuity. Harar itself, founded in the 7th century, still showcases the craftsmanship and heritage of these early settlers.

A pivotal moment in Harar’s history occurred in the 16th century when the city’s Jugol walls were constructed. These fortifications, featuring five iconic gates, not only safeguarded the city from external threats but also preserved its unique cultural identity. The walls symbolise Harar’s spiritual and historical significance, connecting the city to trade routes across the Middle East and North Africa.

Trade Exchange

Situated at the crossroads of historical trade routes, Harar emerged as a bustling market town that linked Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Among its most famous exports is coffee, which holds a legendary connection to the region. Coffee’s origins are traced back to Ethiopia’s Kaffa region, but Harar played a critical role in its trade and popularization. Today, Harar remains one of the oldest centres for coffee trading in the world.

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The Harari coffee ceremony reflects the community’s deep-rooted appreciation for hospitality. This traditional ritual involves roasting beans over an open flame, grinding them by hand, and brewing the coffee in a jebena—a traditional clay pot. Guests, especially first-time visitors, are welcomed with this symbolic gesture of respect and community.

Harar’s trade history is also reflected in its artistry and attire. Traditional Harari clothing showcases a blend of vibrant colours and intricate embroidery, often made from fabrics imported from Arabia, India, and beyond. Harari women wear headscarves and long gowns with detailed embroidery in hues of green, blue, and red, while their jewellery—crafted from gold and adorned with traditional patterns—serves as family heirlooms passed down through generations.

Language

The Harari people speak Adare, a Semitic language closely related to Arabic and influenced by Oromo and Amharic. Though the number of fluent speakers has declined, Adare remains a crucial part of Harari’s identity.

The Harari literary tradition is rich in storytelling and poetry, with roots in the ancient Ge’ez language. Religious poetry, in particular, holds a special place in Harari culture, often exploring themes of love, faith, and resilience. One well-known Harari proverb states: “Jara ka’imma finiin asanaa”—“One who preserves will reap the reward.” This phrase encapsulates the community’s enduring spirit and commitment to cultural preservation.

Religion

Harar is celebrated as the fourth holiest city in Islam, with its over 80 mosques and numerous shrines bearing testimony to its religious significance. For Ethiopian Muslims, Harar serves as a pilgrimage site, steeped in over 1,000 years of Islamic tradition.

The Harari people primarily practice Sunni Islam and Sufism, with spiritual events such as Ashura holding deep significance. This commemoration of Imam Husayn’s martyrdom includes prayers, storytelling, feasting, and communal gatherings that strengthen faith and unity. Celebrations of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha also highlight the importance of family and community bonds.

One unique aspect of Harari spirituality is the tradition of honouring saints or sheikhs. Pilgrims visit shrines throughout Harar to seek blessings, healing, or spiritual reconnection. This practice underscores the Harari people’s reverence for their faith and their city’s sacred heritage.

Family and Social Structure

Family forms the cornerstone of Harari society, with elders playing a pivotal role as custodians of cultural and spiritual knowledge. They pass down traditions through storytelling, ceremonies, and daily interactions, fostering a sense of responsibility and unity within the community.

Central to every Harari home is the naghr, or guest room, where hospitality is offered with great care. These rooms are adorned with colorful embroidery and symbolic patterns representing blessings, prosperity, and protection. Guests are often welcomed with the iconic coffee ceremony, which serves as both a gesture of respect and a connection to the family’s lineage.

Art and Architecture

Harar’s architectural heritage is among the most distinctive in Ethiopia. Traditional Harari homes are constructed using stone and mortar, with layered roofs designed to regulate temperature. Inside, the homes are richly decorated with artefacts, heirlooms, and intricate designs that reflect the community’s spiritual and cultural identity.

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Harari women are especially skilled in textile production and embroidery, drawing inspiration from nature. Their work often features vibrant colours and intricate patterns that showcase both artistic talent and cultural pride. Additionally, Harari pottery, including clay pots and vessels, demonstrates a mastery of craft that has been preserved for generations.

Challenges and Preservation

Like many traditional communities, the Harari people face challenges in preserving their heritage amid rapid modernisation and globalization. The decline of the Adare language and the erosion of traditional practices threaten to weaken their cultural identity. However, efforts to document and revive Harari customs—including festivals, crafts, and oral traditions—reflect the community’s resilience.

Organisations and local leaders are working to preserve the Jugol walls and other historical landmarks, ensuring that Harar remains a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Ethiopia’s rich cultural history.

Conclusion

The story of the Harari people is one of resilience, faith, and dedication to cultural preservation. Their history—from the ancient Harla civilisation to their thriving trade networks and spiritual traditions—serves as a testament to the beauty of community and identity.

Even in the face of modernisation, the Harari people remind us of the enduring value of heritage. By preserving their language, customs, and traditions, they inspire pride and unity within their community and beyond. Harar’s ancient walls, bustling markets, and spiritual sanctuaries stand as a beacon of cultural strength, offering lessons on the importance of preserving history for future generations.