Akhlaq Etiquette

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Akhlaq Etiquette

 

   [Image of Qalasheen Fanous]

 

"They value manners and respect above most things, I found that I would leave a conversation with the Sheikh drenched in my own sweat, for fear of my tongue’s folly, Allah protect us."

 

This document, approved by both Qalasheen and Badawi figures of authority, outlines proper etiquette citizens and visitors should follow in accordance to Qalasheen traditions while within the Qali dwellings or cities. In order to remain respectful and of proper disposition, all are expected to follow these guidelines and rules for success both in official and social affairs.

 

Political Etiquette

When addressing an individual of higher social ranking than oneself, one must approach with their head lowered and avoid interjecting themselves if a conversation is already underway, unless either invited to join or unless the information is urgent.

 

It is considered rude to raise one’s voice above their superiors, whereas it is considered respectful to await one’s turn to speak without interrupting others, when referring or addressing a Sheikh or Sheikha, they are to be referred to using the titles “Sayyid” or Sayyidah” for respectively.

 

Social

In Qalasheen culture, there are many facets of social etiquette that must be followed and respected. In the Al’iiman Rashidun religion, alcohol and non-halaal meat such as pork are strictly forbidden, and any consumption of such within the dwellings of the Qalasheen is not only highly frowned upon, but most often forbidden. They are described as temptations created by Allah to test man’s dedication to his faith.

 

It is also important to always take what is offered. Whether it is gift or food, declining an offer is highly impolite. While it is important to remain humble, if something is offered more than once it should be accepted with courtesy and gratefulness. Gifts are a sign of appreciation and mutual respect, thus declining as much is a desecration upon those aforementioned sentiments. When visiting another person’s tent or home, it is important to bring a gift to them as a sentiment of gratitude. 

 

Food is an important part of Qalasheen culture, and there are many customs that come with it. When eating, one should only use their right hand, as their left is seen as unclean. The left hand is used for unsanitary tasks while the right is intended to remain clean for the acts of greeting and eating. Qalasheen value cleanliness highly, and washing one's hands before eating is essential. When drinking tea and coffee, it is proper to drink slowly in order for the drink to last throughout the meal.

 

When greeting another person for the first time, it is important to say “As-salamu alaykum,” and reply with, “Wa-alaikum salam.” This means peace be upon you, and is the most proper way to greet someone and return the notion. Thanking and welcoming is also quite important, and is most respectful when done in the proper tongue. “Shukran” means thank you and “Afwan,” means you’re welcome. Other helpful common phrases are good morning, “Sabah el kheer,” good evening, “Masaa el kheer,” welcome, “Marhaban”, goodbye “Ma’a salama,” yes “Na’am,” no “La,” God willing, “Inshallah,” and thanks to god, “Mashallah.”

 

Women are often expected to wear long skirts and garb to cover the body and express modesty. Women also often wear hijabs or head scarfs which cover the top of the head and neck. Men often wear customary garb, robes or formal attire that represents their position or career. Qalasheen culture is very tolerant of all people but foreigners are expected to show respect for their customs.

 

Elders are highly respected by the Qalasheen. When greeting an elder, it is customary to kiss the top of their hand and put it to one’s forehead three times, and then kiss their right shoulder as a sign of respect. It is also important to refer to elders as “Amu”.

 

The Qalasheen people are not often in a rush, and lack rigid schedules. Appearing to be in a hurry when speaking with a Qalasheen is often seen as disrespectful behavior. Long handshakes and grasped elbows are commonplace and are signs of mutual respect between friends or companions, while swift handshakes are often for swift or new greetings. For Qalasheen, honor is very important, and thus modesty and pride are well expressed in their customs and interactions.