Most Wolof are Muslim, and it was most often the case that Wolof leaders converted to Islam first, before the religion spread to the less powerful members of society. Mauretanian teachers brought Islam to Wolof rulers as long ago as the 15th century. Islamic practices include praying to Allah five times a day; observance of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting; distribution of gifts to the needy; and whenever financially possible, a trip to Mecca. Many Wolof belong to old Islamic brotherhoods including the Tijaniyya and Quadiriyya. However, in recent years the Muridiyya brotherhood has grown in popularity and now has over a million members, many of whom live in the urban areas of Senegal and The Gambia. This brotherhood was founded in the 1880s by Sheik Amadu Bamba and preaches hard work and clean living as a means to salvation.