Feast in the Desert
Last month, a grand child of our patient, just got married. The day after the actual wedding, a feast was served. It was lunch time. Before noon, they were gathered here in their grand mother’s house to greet her. After that all men are gathered at their big “madlis” or “esteraha” meaning receiving room.Where social gatherings are usually held. It is as big as a convention hall. They had meal altogether there.
One time, a prince of Saudi came to visit the villa and all the sons of our patient had dinner with him in that big receiving room. Usually what was serve was of course their National Food the “kabsa” which is mixed rice topped with slices of chicken. They eat without spoons and fork, even if it is present at the table. They are more comfortable using their traditional way of eating. Just bare hands. Table? Yes, they sometimes use tables specially if it the guest is a VIP. But most of the time if it’s just a family occasion they are just gathered and have a meal on the floor. Most of the feasts held here is Family oriented.
After all men have had their meal, whether it is a big occasion or small, all women gather as well. Composed sometimes of the wives of the male participant. Doesn’t include their children. This is to finish what has been left on the table and save some for children at home. This is cultivating the habit of not wasting a bit on food. Educated and well dressed women will still be under a man’s responsibility so a woman here is more than humble to eat what was last served. This is just one of the most surprising food etiquette here in the Arabian world.
The door to the “Estereha” were guests gathered for a feast.
