Some main aspects about the Arab culture What are the first things that come to your mind when you hear the word “ Arab”? What prejudices could we possibly have? Let us look more deeply into these thoughts and perhaps clear some things up. •Common misconception about the Arab world: Arabs= Homologous mass= SAME religion, language & customs ? Nevertheless in REALITY, cultures, religions & dialects differ from country to country and even city to city! •(In reference to the common space & time question)For Arabs to be an hour late for a visit/appointment NOT uncommon Arabs= Relaxed people ? punctuality not stressed ? In addition Arabs= night culture (due to intense heat of Middle Eastern day) When want to describe something as beautiful: “ she is as lovely as the moon” or “ he is as handsome as the moon” *Popular name=” Layla”= literally means “ NIGHT”! •Arab identity divided into 3 categories: 1.
Family, 2. Honor & 3. Religion 1. Family = Most important parts of Arab culture Define family as their extended relations & ? onsider themselves part of it rather than individuals Feel that they owe their grandparents & elderly ? Rest homes = almost NON-EXISTENT in the Arab world They define success by how large families are (not by how rich) 2.
Honor = EVERYTHING Insults are usually taken personally (even though relaxed & easy going people) Also believe Honor demands of them HOSPITALITY Arab society = Highly communal ? neighbors consider it DUTY to look for each other Lastly: 2. Religion = major part of every Arabs life •Other things to remember: *Conservative behavior: Display of affection between spouses KEPT PRIVATE ? in public= nonexistent Also laughter & joking (in non private gatherings)= toned down Also arguments kept private *Privacy is very important Houses = big solid walls to maintain privacy Have to guarantee people can’t see neighbors from any part of house -> insuring their privacy When visiting Arab relative/friend standing position next to door= insure when door is open? can’t see inside house ? won’t go inside before host signals him to do so (extending hand & saying “ tafaddal” welcome in) Greeting women When introduced to woman in general don’t greet with kiss Only shake her hand IF she extend hand to greet you (otherwise greeting with words only= appropriate) [DON’T COMPLIMENT ARAB HOST or ASSOCIATE ON BEAUTY OF HIS WIFE/SISTER/DAUGHER (IT ISN’T A COMPLIMENT)] *Pampering guests *Admiring objects & gift giving: Admiring something should be taken too far since Arabian host might feel obligated to offer it to you When receiving gifts = custom NOT to open in front of giver
