Customs and traditions of Egypt. National traditions and customs of Egypt Religious traditions in Egypt
The traditions and customs of Ancient Egypt fascinate many people. After all, they are interesting, with their own history. All these traditions are reflected in the country’s sights and in the people who inhabit it. In this article we will look at what customs and traditions were in Ancient Egypt.
What are traditions based on?
We can safely say that the main factor that influences traditions is the geographical location of the country. Almost all traditions are in one way or another connected with some dates and objects. There is a connection between them - this could be an origin or a period. Moreover, each group of traditions is interesting in its own way and stands out in some way.
Religion has a great influence on Egyptian culture. Religion divides the life of each person into periods, moments. The Egyptians went to prayer five times a day. During Ramadan, night turns to day. Muslims had to fast and pray all day, and only after sunset could they start eating.
It is also worth paying attention to family traditions. Every man has the right to have up to four wives - and he cannot divorce them. Although Ramses the Great had 8 wives and 100 concubines. A man could get a divorce only if his wife cheated on him or could not have children. If a divorce took place, then he lived with his mother until he was 14 years old, and then he was given to his father.
Advice
A man couldn’t just marry like that. To get married, he had to buy an apartment and give the bride (valuable) gifts. Her parents also had to give consent to the wedding. The men also had to go through an ancient procession - paying the bride price for the bride. Many of these traditions still exist today.
One can also talk about the whims of the pharaoh. He never showed his hair, but always wore a headdress called NEMES. There is also another tradition - so that the pharaoh did not suffer from flies, he always had slaves with him, who were smeared with honey. These honey slaves attracted flies to them. There is also the fact that in every temple of Ancient Egypt, the pharaoh had to perform the duties of a priest, but he did not do this. Instead, these functions were performed by the chief priests whom he appointed.
Why did men and women wear makeup?
Yes, they wore green and black makeup (it was made of copper and lead). The fact is that they believed in the miraculous powers of this makeup. The original version of applying makeup was sun protection.
In ancient times there were no strong effective medicines. Therefore, they were treated in other ways. For example, moldy bread was used as a treatment for infections, and later mold became a source of penicillin and antibiotics.
Clothing and appearance
It is worth noting that until the children turned 10 years old, they did not wear clothes at all. Moreover, it was hot. Clothes for men and women were skirts and dresses, respectively. As for hairstyles, the wealthy could afford to wear wigs, and those who were poor wore their hair in ponytails. Until the age of 12, boys had to shave their heads, leaving only a small ponytail. Such measures were taken to ensure that they did not have lice and fleas.
Egypt has a rich history and culture dating back thousands of years, from the culture of the pharaohs to Christianity and Islam. Egypt became the birthplace of one of the first civilizations. Its culture has been influenced by many other ethnic groups that have either lived in or invaded the country.
The traditions of modern Egypt may seem a little different from those we are used to, which in turn can make tourists feel confused at times. To understand the atmosphere of Egypt, it is necessary to carefully study the culture, customs and family values of the people inhabiting this country. If you learn to understand and respect other people's values, traveling to Egypt will bring you even more pleasure.
Egyptian traditions: believers and food
Most Muslims in Egypt do not drink alcohol. However, they don't mind when others drink. However, it is important that you drink alcohol in moderation in Egypt. Egyptian traditions do not involve eating pork, but for visitors there is always a restaurant or cafe that serves dishes made from this meat.
Note for women
In Egypt, there are several restrictions for visiting women. In the ticket line, foreign women stand in line with other women.
Direct interaction with is never recommended. It is always wise to talk to them through someone local or people you know well.
Crime
Egypt has a low crime rate, but domestic violence is common. From time to time there are petty thieves and pickpockets. Women should be on their guard, especially in areas far from the city center. Drug use is frowned upon, so taking or carrying drugs in public is not recommended to avoid problems with the law.
Warmth and hospitality
Egypt has amazing natural, historical and cultural attractions, so tourism here serves as one of the main sources of income. Egyptians are extremely friendly, open to other cultures and known for their hospitality, so don't be surprised if people invite you into their homes and insist that you accept the invitation.
Egyptians are generally friendly by nature and love to help people. If you ask them any question, they will answer it willingly. It is also interesting that whenever you ask an Egyptian a question, he will call other people to discuss it and will try to give you the most accurate and correct answer to the question asked.
Family
Traditions in Egypt are strictly followed when it comes to family matters. Family is very important to Egyptians, so they place special emphasis on family values and relationships. Respect between family members leads to the fact that children most often live with their parents before starting their own family and having children. In general, parents encourage marriage and financially support their sons and daughters to get married. Egyptians love to hold large wedding celebrations where they invite all family members and friends.
Typically, responsibilities are distributed in such a way that women remain in charge of childcare, while men are responsible for financial support of the family.
Since family members are very attached to each other, they deeply mourn the death of a family member. It is common to wear only black for at least 40 days after the death of a family member, and they may grieve for up to a year. This is one of the traditions inherited from the great pharaohs. Traditions in Egypt are such that it is considered inappropriate to show any signs of happiness during a funeral.
Holidays
Egyptians love different celebrations. Close family members and friends always get together during holidays and special celebrations.
Because of the great love for food, the whole family usually prepares and sets the table; on such occasions, cooking together is common here. It seems that the culinary traditions of Ancient Egypt have been preserved here to this day. Women usually take pride in their ability to cook: they like to compete with each other to see who can cook the most delicious dish. Interestingly, restaurants are one of the most thriving businesses as Egyptians enjoy trying new cuisines and value delicious food.
How to respond if an Egyptian invites you to his home
Traditions in Egypt suggest that if you are invited to visit, you must first refuse. If the owner really wants you to visit his home, he will give you a second invitation. In this case, you should not refuse the invitation. If for some reason you do not have the opportunity to visit an Egyptian, be sure to promise that you will visit him next time. However, it is still better to accept the invitation, since otherwise there is a chance that your host will feel humiliated. Hospitality is one of the characteristic features of the Egyptians, so inviting guests is a national tradition in Egypt. Representatives of the people of this country are always pleased to show respect and look after their guests. If you want, you can even grab a few gifts for the host, but check if the gift matches his status.
Egypt: religion
Religion plays a big role in the lives of Egyptians, and it is mixed into the daily activities of Muslims and Christians living in Egypt. Mosques are located here and there, so when walking along the streets of Egyptian cities, you can hear the call to pray up to five times a day.
Although Egyptians use the Western calendar, they refer to the Islamic religious holiday calendar, and Ramadan is the most important month of the year. Ramadan is a holy month for Egyptians, which they celebrate with friends and relatives. During this month, Egyptians stay awake at night and spend time in prayer and spiritual activities. They also do charity work, reconnect, and share love and affection for each other. Despite this, the tourist season in Egypt continues even during the holy month.
Places of prayer
Places designated for prayer are considered sacred by Egyptians, and therefore tourists from abroad should respect such churches and mosques, of which there are a huge number in Egypt.
So, when a person enters the territory of a place where prayers are held, he should take off his shoes and cover his head. You should also wear modest clothing that covers most of your body. Interestingly, Friday in Egypt is considered the holy day of the week.
Tips
In Egypt, tipping is encouraged and often expected. You can offer tips not only to the waiters, but also to all the people who helped you during your trip. However, try to avoid large sums - Egyptians perceive this as an insult. Either way, tipping is a great way to make a good impression on the people around you. However, you should not offer tips to people of your status or professionals.
To summarize
If you want to read about Egypt, traditions and customs in a short summary, then the following can be said about this topic: Egypt's long history, tourist attractions and geographical location make it an ideal destination for business and tourism. But before you visit this country, it is important to understand the culture and traditions of this place.
Egypt is a truly unique country where the traditions and customs of Ancient Egypt are combined with the modern structure of society. Egypt has been through a lot: it has been the victim of many invaders in the past, and has recently suffered from economic and political problems. But Egyptians continue to love and enjoy their lives, despite all the difficulties and problems. Perhaps by visiting Egypt, you can learn the positive thinking that is so inherent in the local population.
Due to the fact that Egypt is a Muslim country, it is therefore advisable to wear shorts and T-shirts only at resorts. Women should not wear clothes that are too revealing, especially if they are traveling alone. Violence against tourists is excluded, but the importunity of local men quickly becomes boring. You should not agree to an offer to give a lonely woman a lift or drink a cup of tea alone. Remember also that an accepted invitation to a disco or a cafe will definitely be regarded as an agreement to share the night.
Egyptians consider the behavior of Western women to be quite free and your excessive friendliness and openness may be interpreted incorrectly. When choosing an outfit for vacation, do not forget about customs of Egypt: Egypt is an Islamic country, people here are believers, traditions are Puritan. According to Muslim laws, it is believed that if a woman is uncovered, and even more so if some parts of her body are exposed, especially her stomach, then she is easily accessible. In fact, if the tourists realized that they were shouting after them, they would have heard that these were offensive things. Special advice to men who, wanting to sunbathe, take off their T-shirts on the streets of resort towns. Not only is this simply offensive to the eye, it is also a manifestation of disrespect for the traditions of a Muslim country.
When photographing people, you should ask for their consent, since the Koran prohibits depicting a person, and it may be unacceptable for a religious Egyptian to pose in front of the camera. Egyptians are very friendly and helpful, but they don’t do anything for nothing. Think about how you will pay before accepting help from someone. When providing any service, you will be asked for “baksheesh”. Baksheesh is considered decent and is 5% of the cost of the service. But if they ask you for 5 pounds, you can easily give ten times less.
In the East, it is customary to bargain, and the more firmly you stand your ground, the more respectful they will treat you. Before you hire a taxi or buy anything at the market, agree on the price, and then under no circumstances make any concessions. In almost all Egyptian settlements there is a special tourist police. Its employees are recognized by the "Tourist Police" armband. The police officer is obliged to provide assistance, provide the necessary information and speak English.
Egyptians, men and women, are passionate smokers. The most famous brand of good local cigarettes is Cleopatra. Hookah smoking is very common; the Egyptians call it “shisha”. Tobacco for smoking can be light and strong, with the aroma of honey, apples, strawberries or peaches. He has nothing to do with drugs. You can safely try smoking by ordering a hookah in a cafe, because... Hygiene is ensured through the use of disposable plastic mouthpieces. Day off is Friday.
Do not disturb Muslims on Friday before 12 noon, do not make appointments and do not break into closed shops. Until their owners perform Friday prayers, nothing will work. In hotels on Friday, all staff work as on other days. Egypt has a prohibition law, so you can only buy alcohol in hotels or restaurants. Do not offer alcoholic drinks to Egyptians and do not appear drunk outside the hotel.
The Muslim faith determines the rhythm of life of the Egyptians. You can understand this by purely external signs: for example, five times a day the muezzin calls believers to prayer through a loudspeaker. And in the month of Ramadan, night becomes day. Muslims fast all day and break their fast only after sunset. At this time, public life comes to a standstill; government institutions are open only from 10.00 to 14.00. During the holy month of Ramadan, eating is prohibited from sunrise to sunset. Tourists visiting the country at this time are not recommended to consume any food or drinks (especially alcohol) on the streets. Failure to comply with this rule may result in detention by the police for disrespect for laws and traditions. The beginning of the Holy Month of Ramadan may move from December to March. When planning your trip, we recommend checking the dates of Ramadan.
You should also not give Egyptians alcoholic drinks, sausages and other products, since Muslims do not drink alcohol or pork and this act, dictated by good intentions on your part, will be perceived incorrectly.
We advise you not to try, even jokingly, to talk to Egyptians about purchasing drugs. This crime is severely punished in Egypt (death penalty by hanging). And, in order not to incur suspicion, it is better to refrain from such conversations.
The expression "Egyptian time" (Egyptian time) has become a saying not only in Egypt, but also beyond its borders. Egyptians are late everywhere and always. Having made an appointment with an Egyptian for three hours, you can arrive at 4 and be the first, and at seven you will receive a call or a note apologizing for being late and asking to reschedule the date for tomorrow at the same time. Note. Don’t be offended: you will receive in response the phrase: “Egyptian Time!”
Often, as a result of a successful transaction, an Egyptian will be happy to shake your hands. Moreover, mainly in order to vouch for the lady. Russian ladies often willingly extend their hand, and then become indignant that the Egyptians are arrogant. The whole point is that first it is useful to know the customs of the country where you are going, then there will be no offense. So, in Egypt it is customary that if a woman allows herself to be touched, even if it’s by the hand, then everything else can also be touched, and it doesn’t matter that there is a man next to the lady.
The crime rate in the country is low. In big cities or busy places, you should only be wary of pickpockets, but they also often choose their compatriots as their victims, fearing to get involved with foreigners. In any case, if you consider your rights to be “violated,” you can safely contact a tourist police officer, who is obliged to provide you with assistance. It’s not difficult to find him in any tourist center, and you can recognize him by his armband with the inscription “tourist police.”
If there is one thing to fear in big cities, it is the completely unbridled behavior of local drivers. Here they completely ignore road markings, never use a turn signal, and using high beams in the evening and at night is considered an act that is simply indecent and causes a violent response from drivers of oncoming cars. Egyptians practically do not use rear-view and side-view mirrors, so your car can be cut off or slammed at any time. It is almost impossible to adapt to the driving logic of the Egyptians. We can say that there are no traffic rules, so not only drivers, but also pedestrians need to be extremely careful.
The customs and traditions of Egypt, which have developed over centuries, are closely related to religion. And today the inhabitants of this country are so religious that the term “Egyptian atheist” is almost nonsense. In general, Egypt is a Muslim country, but a significant number of its inhabitants also believe in Christianity. However, despite the often fanatical worship of the deity, the Egyptians, nevertheless, manage to be tolerant of people of other faiths and do not impose their own code of conduct on anyone. For example, in Egyptian resorts, alcoholic beverages, prohibited by Islam, are freely sold, and the European, somewhat frivolous style of clothing of tourists does not shock local residents at all. Pork dishes, not consumed by Muslims, can be found on restaurant menus.
Within their society, the inhabitants of the country, for the most part, are very jealous of compliance with established norms of behavior, which are quite conservative. One of the strict rules of these norms is that communication between an unmarried man and an unmarried woman is prohibited if it occurs outside the university campuses. Another fairly strict rule is that Egyptian women, according to the Muslim code, should not appear on the street alone.
Most of these rules stem from the laws of Islam, which, in essence, imply the appropriateness of this or that behavior. For example, the traditions of Islamic society dictate that women wear the hijab, which is not only a sign of religiosity. Since ancient times, it has protected the faces of peasant women from the hot sun and ubiquitous dust, and, in addition, it was and is considered a symbol of female modesty. And this is a powerful tool for attracting men with serious intentions, which works great today. And even intellectual Egyptian women, who abandoned the “hijab” some time ago, are now increasingly wearing it along with a long, wide dress - galabaya.
The rhythm of life of Egyptians is determined by the Muslim faith. Believers gather for prayer five times a day. During the holy month of Ramadan, Egyptians strictly observe fasting throughout the day, which ends after sunset. Public life stops during this month, and even government institutions function for no more than two hours a day.
In everything related to the religion of Islam in Egypt, one must act very delicately. Silence is always observed in mosques, and shoes must be taken off when entering them. However, it cannot be argued that behavior in this Muslim temple is too limited to certain limits - men, for example, are allowed to read or even take a nap.
Egyptian Muslims and Christians can get along well in the same family, and even the customs of representatives of different religious movements have intertwined and become similar over time. For example, the seventh day of a newborn’s life in Egypt is celebrated solemnly everywhere, just as the same rituals are performed at funerals. And the holiday of the renewal of nature - the “spring breeze”, or Sham el-Nessin, is greeted by all Egyptians with the same joy and enthusiasm.
In general, Egyptians are very open and friendly people, but there are some nuances that a foreigner should be aware of in this country. For example, it is impossible to speak critically about her in the presence of a resident of Egypt - he will perceive such statements not only as rudeness, but also as a personal insult. And in this case, it will be great luck for a foreigner who expressed himself carelessly if the Egyptian turns out to be a well-mannered person. If not, the consequences of such a statement can be very unpleasant.
Bargaining is not accepted in Egypt. It is better to know the cost of a product or service in advance and not try to change it down. Any little thing can be considered a service, even the answer to the simplest question, how to find the right street or house. In such situations, it is best to contact the police, who will indicate the correct guidelines and will not demand any payment.
Many Egyptians prefer to wear national clothes. This is especially practiced in rural areas, but is not alien to cities. Men wear loose-fitting cotton shirts, mostly white and blue, while women wear black outfits, often adding bright elements to them.
The main center of life in Egypt is the family. For a long time, the tradition of uniting several generations into one family was observed here, but now it has been somewhat modified - small families began to separate. However, the ties between relatives are very close, and the patronage of the entire family over each of them remains unchanged. Family supports financially, family improves life, family helps in difficult times.
Most Egyptian peasant families have many children. This is advisable in relation to the well-being of the family - workers are needed on the farm, and children are taught to work from an early age. Egyptians welcome the birth of boys more than the birth of girls, because male help in villages is more important.
The lifestyle, as well as spiritual and social guidelines, are different in different layers of Egyptian society. Its educated representatives speak French or English, wear European clothes and are interested in European culture. The peasants prefer national clothes, speak their native language and sacredly honor Egyptian customs.
However, no matter how Europeanized the representatives of the upper and middle class of Egypt may be, there is one feature that makes them similar to the peasant class - most Egyptians are very superstitious. All kinds of talismans, intended to protect their owner from trouble, envy, the evil eye, damage and other misfortunes, can be seen anywhere. There are amulets at the entrances to poor houses and luxury apartments, and on the window of a small shop, and on the glass of an expensive car, and under the lapel of a jacket from a French Couturier, and on the national galabaya.
Egyptians are especially sensitive to words. Here you can’t mindlessly lavish compliments like: “You look great!” or “What beautiful children you have!” They may be mistaken for a desire to cast the evil eye if the phrase is not accompanied by the expression “ma shaa-lla!”, which means “By the grace of God!” And expressing affection for a person, even if it comes from a pure heart, is generally on the verge of taboo! There is also a deep belief in the evil eye in Egypt. True, here it is blue, and not black, as in other countries. In Egypt, young children are especially protected from the evil eye. For example, in the outback, in order to fool all sorts of evil spirits, little boys are not only dressed in girls’ clothes, but also have their ears pierced. Throughout the country, even in the families of intellectuals, they often give children dissonant, repulsive nicknames, sincerely believing that the Shaitan will be completely uninteresting in a child with such an unattractive name. And in response to the question: “How is the child’s health?” You can only hear in response: “He’s sick.” So it’s better not to ask such questions.
On the streets of Egyptian cities you can see a rather ridiculous sight. An excellently dressed mother, fragrant with expensive aromas, walks decorously with her child, whose face is heavily smeared with soot. This is a long-standing custom of the local people. For a long time, Egyptians have been camouflaging their children by dressing them in unwashed cast-offs and dirtying their faces. According to caring parents, such a child will not attract the attention of envious people.
The Egyptians also have a great variety of superstitions. For example, you should never show the soles of your shoes to anyone in this country. This is considered a sign of extreme disrespect for a person and causes a very violent reaction of anger with all the ensuing consequences.
Nails and hair are not cut at night, apartments are not cleaned in the evenings, shoes are not crossed, and needles and threads are not touched after sunset. Such signs exist not only in Egypt, however, it is likely that the Egyptians were their founders, giving such rituals a special, secret meaning.
Of course, not all Egyptians are overly superstitious or fanatically observant of their customs. However, one thing can be said about the vast majority of them - these people are infinitely devoted to their ancient roots, which to this day determine the main direction of both their actions and their development.
Egypt is considered a traditional holiday destination for millions of Russians every year. That is why almost all guests of this country are interested in the culture, history and traditions of Egypt.
It turns out that in Egypt, in addition to the magnificent, endless sandy beaches, you can find many interesting sights, and also get acquainted with the traditions and customs of this eastern country.
Religious traditions in Egypt
There are a huge number of traditions that have developed over the years, almost all of them are related to religion. It can be noted that Egyptians are extremely religious people. Most of the Egyptian population are Muslims, although there are those who profess other religions, including Christians.
Despite their religiosity, Egyptians are extremely tolerant of people of other faiths. For example, you can easily purchase alcohol, although Islam prohibits it, and also, for example, try a pork dish in Egyptian restaurants, although this meat is prohibited among Muslims.
When it comes to traditions and customs within Muslim society, the people of Egypt are extremely conservative. Thus, one of the strictest rules is that women must leave the house accompanied by someone, as well as in closed clothes, often even in a burqa, when only one eye is visible. More often, of course, women can be seen in a hijab - this is a scarf that covers the head. This tradition not only represents the religiosity of Muslim women, but was also a traditional dress for peasant women to protect their faces from dust and sun.
The traditions of Egypt also include the regime by which Muslims live; they strictly follow the prayer schedule, which happens 5 times a day. And during the holiday of Ramadan, Egyptians do not eat or drink during the day, but only after sunset. All public life and activity simply freezes during this period.
Egyptian customs in public life
A foreigner who comes to this country should carefully prepare and learn some rules regarding life in Egypt. Everyone knows that Egyptians are patriots of their country, if you suddenly speak impartially about the country in the presence of a resident of Egypt, then you can run into a lot of trouble.
Everyone knows that the peoples of the East love to bargain. Official bargaining is not accepted in Egypt. This can only be done in markets where prices are significantly inflated in advance. In shopping centers they are fixed. For Egyptians, bargaining is a kind of entertainment during the working day.
Egyptian customs also include clothing. Many local residents prefer to wear national clothes, especially for residents of rural areas, although residents of large cities also do not neglect this. Men prefer to wear loose-fitting cotton shirts in light colors. Women can often be seen in dark and even black outfits.
For Egyptians, family is the most important thing in life. Egyptian traditions are closely connected not only with religion, but also with family. It has long been a tradition in Egypt that families lived together, often even for several generations. Today, families are increasingly separated from each other, but at the same time they maintain warm friendly relations and celebrate holidays and other memorable dates together.
Customs that relate to lifestyle depend on which layer of society certain Egyptian families belong to. Educated, wealthy Egyptians increasingly speak French or English, dress in European style and have corresponding hobbies. Simpler local residents, as before, wear traditional national clothes and communicate in their native language.
Despite the visible differences between different strata of society , all Egyptians are extremely superstitious, they believe in various omens, are afraid of the evil eye, envy, and often carry various talismans and amulets with them. Having visited the house of the Egyptians, you can see a huge number of different amulets, which are located from the entrance to the house and ending with each individual room. By the way, when asked, you can safely answer – amulets and talismans, for example, a “cat’s eye” pendant.
Due to the fact that the Egyptians are so superstitious, it is not customary here to openly praise an Egyptian or anything belonging to him. A phrase, for example, “what a beautiful child you have” will not only be inappropriate, but even tactless, because the Egyptians are afraid of the evil eye.
Marriage customs in Egypt
Marriage in Muslim countries is treated with great care and great responsibility. Even today in the modern world, the parents of the bride and groom make an agreement that their children should get married long before their marriageable age, and sometimes even at birth. Of course, today in the modern world not every family observes these traditions; young people are violating them more and more often.
It is accepted that A Muslim can only marry a Muslim woman If suddenly, due to some circumstances, he chooses a bride of a different faith, then before the wedding she must convert to Islam. In Islam, a man can have 4 wives, but each one must have equal conditions.
The divorce process is very simple, just repeat the phrase “I’m getting a divorce” 3 times in front of witnesses. By the way, in Muslim countries it is very difficult for a divorced woman. She is considered an unworthy woman; it is unlikely that anyone will ever marry her again. And the most difficult thing is that the children remain in the father’s family.
Traditions in Egypt are very multifaceted; they reflect the entire identity of this eastern country. Every tourist, before he decides to go to Egypt, should carefully study the traditions and customs of this country in order to avoid trouble. Most often, local residents are extremely tolerant of foreigners, but some actions can greatly offend Egyptians. Although for us such actions are often in the order of things. We wish you a pleasant stay and many bright, unforgettable impressions!
