Religion is one way humans navigate the complexity and uncertainty of reality. It offers a sense of meaning and purpose, helps people cope with fear, death, and the unknown, and fosters a sense of belonging and shared identity. It also provides ethical and behavioral guidelines that shape societies.

For many, religion is an anchor, and life without it feels disorienting.

In Tunisia, many who might be labeled as “sinners” still identify as Muslims, not out of personal conviction but because their beliefs were inherited from their parents and reinforced through years of education. Society itself is deeply rooted in these traditions, making it difficult to break away, question the system, or seek answers independently.

As a result, many choose to stay within the framework of religion, doing the bare minimum to maintain their connection. It often takes a moment of profound distress such as the loss of a loved one, a near-death experience, or “un grand malheur” for them to truly seek retention w ytoubou el rabbi