How did Antemoro holy men influence religion and government in Madagascar?

The Antemoro people, who emerged in southeastern Madagascar following the arrival of Afro-Arab settlers in the early 16th century, established a unique theocratic state by the 1630s. This state was notable for being the only one on the island at the time to possess written texts, which utilized the Arabic alphabet to record both religious and secular knowledge in the Malagasy language.12

Antemoro holy men, known as ombiasi, played a significant role in shaping local society. As diviner-healers, they served as legal arbitrators and were highly regarded for their ability to provide amulets and magical medicines. Because they possessed literacy and specialized knowledge, these holy men traveled extensively throughout the island, exerting a profound influence on other Malagasy groups regarding both religion and government. Their influence was rooted in their proximity to Islamic traditions, which became a key criterion for political legitimacy within their own society and was respected by others across the region.312