Marriage Customs in Jordan
The traditional wedding ceremonies in Jordan typically begin with the “Jaheh.” A large group of the groom’s family walks in a single file towards the bride’s home to formally request her hand in marriage. The size of the delegation often reflects the pride the groom’s family takes in their social status. Once an agreement is reached, the festivities commence, including the presentation of gold and other celebratory preparations.
Following this, the wedding celebration takes place, with a historic custom of walking to the bride’s house, assuming it is nearby. Rice is thrown over the heads of those joining the procession. Commonly, weddings are held on Fridays, including the groom’s bath, the wedding procession, and a communal meal.
Birth Customs in Jordan
From the outset of pregnancy, special attention is given to fulfilling the cravings of the expectant mother to prevent any potential marks, known as “the birthmark,” on the newborn. On the seventh day after the birth, a celebration occurs where women assist the new mother with cleansing rituals, often using herbs such as lavender, wormwood, and yarrow in the wash. This is followed by the use of incense from burning oleander sticks, after which she dons new clothing and adornments. The newborn is bathed in salted water and traditionally has kohl applied to their eyes.
The baby is then given to the father or grandfather, who recites the call to prayer (Adhan) into the infant’s ear. Subsequent to this, a ritual slaughter known as “Aqeekah” is performed, inviting some local family members to celebrate. The infant also undergoes a traditional practice known as “Tahnik,” where a small piece of softened date is placed in the gums of the newborn, gently mashed and moved from side to side, following a practice by the Prophet Muhammad. If the baby is male, circumcision may also take place on this day.
Death Rituals in Jordan
Upon the passing of an individual, the body is washed, shrouded, prayed over, and subsequently buried. During this time, family and community members gather to console the bereaved, showing their support. The mourning period typically lasts for three days, during which bitter coffee is served along with meals for the grieving family. After the mourning period concludes, visits to the deceased’s family occur every Monday and Thursday for a total of forty days.
Celebration of Islamic Holidays in Jordan
Significant customs are associated with the holy month of Ramadan. The celebrations commence upon the sighting of the moon, with decorations being hung in homes, streets, and shops. Community members gather at mosques for Taraweeh prayers and extend congratulations for the blessed month.
Preparation for Suhoor, the pre-dawn meal, takes place and is consumed prior to Fajr, alongside engagement in worship, family gatherings for Iftar, and charitable acts. At the end of the month, Zakat al-Fitr is distributed.
As Ramadan concludes, Jordanians prepare for Eid al-Fitr by purchasing new clothes. On the day of the celebration, men and women gather in public squares and mosques for prayers, followed by a visit to cemeteries to recite Fatiha for the deceased. Family members then gather at the home of the eldest family member for breakfast, sharing festive greetings and enjoying outings together.
Eid al-Adha follows similar customs to Eid al-Fitr, with the additional practice of sacrificing an animal, traditionally sharing the liver or “malaq,” enjoying Mansaf for lunch, and distributing meat to the needy, relatives, and friends.
Hospitality Customs in Jordan
In Jordan, serving Arabic coffee holds significant importance, symbolizing the key to conversation in Bedouin society. It is a gesture of hospitality, reflecting generosity on the part of the host.
Coffee is first offered to the guest seated in the foremost position according to the principle “the coffee is special, while tea is casual.” The beverage is poured for guests from right to left. The host must serve the coffee with their right hand while holding the coffee pot with the left, creating a soft sound when introducing the cup to guests, indicating the pouring of coffee. However, the coffee cup should not be handed over if the guest uses their left hand or remains reclined.
Regarding the amount of coffee poured, the “Hushmeh” tradition dictates filling the cup about one-third full. Should it exceed this amount, it implies the guest is not welcome and should leave the gathering.
Moreover, every cup of coffee is designated with a specific name reflecting its significance. For example, the “Finjāl al-Hayf” is the first cup served, consumed by the host to reassure the guest of the coffee’s quality. The second cup, known as “Finjāl al-Dhaif,” is offered to the guest, signifying hospitality. The third cup, termed “Finjāl al-Kaif,” indicates that the guest enjoys the taste of the coffee and feels at ease in the gathering, while the fourth cup, “Finjāl al-Sayf,” symbolizes the guest’s support for the host in times of trouble.