Folklore

The Somali Issa have a creation myth that depicts their common ancestor, Aqiil Abuu Taalib, as an Arabian holy man. In his honor, there are hymns (qasiidas). His maqaam (shrine) is in Djibouti, where he is said to have appeared miraculously. The oral tradition of the Somalis also includes storytelling and poetry. Poetry recited in villages by gabaye, or special readers, is a way of documenting the community's history and customs, as well as current events. Because nomadic Somalis have begun to learn to read and write, the Somali tradition of oral poetry may become less important.

Some of the Afars' beliefs date back to their original religion. It existed prior to the arrival of Islam. These beliefs include a reverence for the abilities possessed by the spirits of the dead. There is also a belief in the existence of sacred groves and trees. Anointing one's body with butter or ghee, a clarified butter used for cooking and other purposes, is one traditional practice that is part of this belief system. There is also an annual commemoration of a day of the dead known as Rabena.