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4.8: Culture (1)

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    347712

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    Learning Objectives

    In this section, you will be able to:

    • Learn about traditional hobbies in Arab countries.

    Traditional Hobbies in the Arab World:

    Arab pastimes are varied and can differ widely depending on personal interests, cultural background, and regional influences. There are many hobbies commonly enjoyed by Arabs, which include:

    1. Arabic calligraphy (فن الخط العربي/Fan Al Khatt Al Arabi) is a highly respected form of art in Arab culture, and many people enjoy practicing it as a hobby.

    fig-ch01_patchfile_01.jpg
    Figure \(\PageIndex{1}\): Arabic Calligraphy, CC BY 3.0.

    2. Poetry (الشِعر/Al Shi'r) is a rich tradition among Arabs, and writing or reciting poetry is a popular hobby for many.
    3. Playing traditional Arab musical instruments such as the Oud (العود), Qanun (القانون), or Dirbakkah (دربكّة) is a common hobby for music enthusiasts.

    fig-ch01_patchfile_01.jpg
    Figure \(\PageIndex{2}\): Oud Instrument, CC0 1.0 DEED.
    fig-ch01_patchfile_01.jpg
    Figure \(\PageIndex{3}\): Dirbakkah, CC BY-SA 4.0.
    fig-ch01_patchfile_01.jpg
    Figure \(\PageIndex{4}\): Qanun, CC0 1.0 DEED.

    4. Socializing over tea or coffee with friends and family is a beloved hobby for many Arabs.
    5. Traditional oriental dancing Dabke is a popular hobby, often performed at weddings and other celebrations.
    6. Equestrian sports (رياضات الفروسيّة/Ryadhat Al Furusiyah) such as horseback riding and camel racing have deep cultural roots in Arab societies and are enjoyed as hobbies by many. Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said, "علّموا أولادكم السباحة والرماية وركوب الخيل/Allimou awladakum al sibahata wa al rimayata wa rukuba al khayli", which translates to "Teach your children swimming, shooting, and horseback riding." Many people adhere to these teachings and adopt them as hobbies and necessary skills, especially in the Arab Gulf.
    7. Falconry (الصقارة/Al Saqarah), which involves training and hunting with falcons, is a traditional Arab sport and hobby.

    fig-ch01_patchfile_01.jpg
    Figure \(\PageIndex{5}\): Falconry in UAE, CC BY-SA 2.0.

    8. Oriental cuisine (المطبخ الشرقي/Al Mattbakh Al Sharqi) is renowned for its rich flavors and diverse dishes, so many people enjoy cooking and experimenting with different recipes as a hobby.
    9. Camping (التخييم/Al Takhyeem) and outdoor activities such as exploring the desert and engaging in outdoor activities like dune bashing and sandboarding are popular hobbies, especially in Gulf countries.
    10. Arts and crafts, where Arab artisans create intricate handicrafts such as pottery, weaving, and embroidery, which are often pursued as hobbies.

    These are just a few examples, and there are countless other hobbies enjoyed by Arabs across the Middle East and North Africa, reflecting the region's rich cultural heritage and diversity.

    Activities:

    Query \(\PageIndex{1}\)

    Check Your Understanding

    • What are some traditional hobbies people enjoy in Arab countries? List at least three and describe them.

    • Why is Arabic calligraphy considered a respected art form? Would you like to try it? Why or why not?

    • What traditional musical instruments are mentioned in the text? Have you ever heard them before?

    • Why do many Arabs enjoy socializing over tea or coffee? Is this similar or different to how people socialize in your culture?

    • What did Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encourage teaching children, and why do you think these activities are important?

    • Falconry is an important hobby in Arab culture. Would you ever want to learn this skill? Explain your answer.

    • Why do many people in Gulf countries enjoy camping and exploring the desert? What do you think is interesting about this hobby?

    • What kinds of arts and crafts are popular hobbies in Arab countries? Which one would you most like to learn, and why?

    • Read about the traditional hobbies in the Arab world.
      Then discuss with a partner (or in a small group):

      • Which of these hobbies do you find the most interesting? Why?

      • Are there any hobbies in Arab culture that are also popular in your culture?

      • What is your favorite hobby? Is it similar to or different from the hobbies mentioned in the text?

     

     

     

    This page titled 4.8: Culture (1) is shared under a CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Hanaa Kassas (ASCCC Open Educational Resources Initiative (OERI)) .