Question

what is arab world and their cultural traditions.

Answer 1

Ans:-

The Arab world

The commonly used term "Arab world" refers to Arabic-speaking countries stretching from the Atlantic Ocean in the west to the Arabian Sea in the east, and from the Mediterranean Sea in the north to the Horn of Africa and the Indian Ocean in the southeast. It consists of 24 countries and territories with a population of some 325 million people. The Arab World stretches across more than 12.9 million square kilometers (5 million square miles) – an area larger than Europe, Canada, China, the United States or Brazil. The Asian part of the Arab world is called the Mashriq (sharq in Arabic means east). The North African part of the Arab World to the west of Egypt and Sudan is known as the Maghreb (gharb meaning west).

The term "Arab" often connotes the Middle East, but a significant part of the Arab World is found in North Africa, including the two largest countries in Africa, Sudan and Algeria. The largest country in the Arab Middle East is Saudi Arabia.

The ´Arabic-speaking countries´ or the ´Arab world´ comprise a cultural, ethnic, linguistic, religious, and artistic multitude and richness - a diversity grasping the mind and senses. The Arabic language is one essential key to opening the door of the histories, cultures and peoples of this vast region.

  CULTURAL TRADITIONS:-

The traditions and customs of Arab cultures have many differences compared to Western culture. If you are traveling to an Arab country, knowing certain Arab customs and traditions.

Religious Beliefs:-

Arab culture and the Islamic faith are deeply intertwined. While Islam is the predominant religion, other religious groups are accepted and treated with respect.

Most Arabs believe that most of life’s events are controlled and orchestrated by God. Man is dependent on the fate as determined by God and is powerless in controlling many of life’s events. As a result, religious affiliation is essential to everyone in Arab society.

Most Arabs believe there should be no separation between church and state and that religion should be taught to children in school.

While there are multiple sects of Islam, Islamic law (Sharia) is as important as any other type of law.

According to Islam, piety is the most admirable characteristic someone can have.

Mosques are considered holy sites and strict rules accompany visits to the mosque. Some of these include: never walking in front of someone praying, the prohibition of pictures or video of people in the mosque, and the prohibition of men wearing shorts and women wearing sleeveless or short-sleeved dresses.

Family is Important:-

Besides their faith, family is the second most important element to Arabs. Family loyalty and obligations take precedence over loyalty and obligations to friends or a job and over one’s personal needs.

Children are considered as “jewels” and that men and women, as well as male and female children have different and distinct roles.

The family structure is tight-knit and is one of the major determining factors of personal status, followed by individual character and achievement. A person’s honor and dignity come from their family.

Everyday Arabic Traditions:-

• It is not polite to say “No”. The term “As God wills it” is a nicer way to say “No.”
• It is always best to say “Yes.” Keep in mind that a “Yes” can also mean “Maybe.”
• Never openly refuse a request from a friend.
• If someone does a favor for you, return the favor in some way.
• Arabs are generally very socially-oriented people.
• People who are relaxed and personable enough to establish relationships tend to be more successful.

Arab Thinking:-

• Arabs are more likely to have subjective perceptions.
• To protect loss of face, an Arab will rarely admit to a mistake.
• Fatalism based on religious beliefs is common.
• Honor is more important than facts.
• Arabs believe in persons, not in institutions.
• Emotions connote a sincere concern for the outcome of the decision.

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Greetings and Gestures

• Handshakes are common greetings and farewells.
• Long handshakes, grasped elbows, and walking hand in hand by two males is common place in the Arab world.
• Hugging only occurs between close friends.
• Contact between members of the opposite sex in public is considered out of bounds
• Only use the right hand to eat, touch and present gifts.
• Eye contact during discussions is often long and direct. Long eye contact at women is considered rude.
• It is offensive to ask a man about his wife or female family member.
• Arabs don’t have rigid schedules. Appearing to be in a hurry while meeting with an Arab is considered offensive.
• Never point at a person.
• Arabs have a lot less body space than Westerners.

Hospitality and Visits

• Hospitality, friendliness, and generosity to strangers is an expression of sacred duties.
• When sitting, avoid stretching legs in front of or sitting up higher than others.
• Don’t lean against walls, slouch in chairs or put hands in your pockets.
• Double meanings are common in conversations.
• Do not talk loudly.
• The meal is usually at the conclusion to an event.
• Middle Easterners consider it impolite to eat everything on one’s plate.
• Take off your shoes at the entrance and leave them there before going in.