5 Weirdest Egyptian Traditions and Customs

Summary

This video introduces viewers to five fascinating Egyptian customs and traditions, blending humor and cultural depth. It covers the 'Sailor's Impossible Invitation,' the 'Sebou' celebration for newborns, the tradition of eating 'Feseekh' (salted fish) during Easter, the cultural significance of the 'five-finger gesture' to ward off envy, and the belief that spilling coffee brings good luck. These insights offer a unique glimpse into Egyptian culture, making it both entertaining and educational for those planning to visit or learn more about the country.

Takeaways

• 😀 Egyptian culture is rich with unique customs and traditions, which are both intriguing and amusing.
• 🚤 The 'sailor's impossible invitation' is a humorous custom where someone invites a friend to join them even when it's impossible, like someone on a boat asking someone on the shore to come over for tea.
• 👶 'Isubua' is a celebration held on the seventh day after a child is born, rooted deeply in Egyptian culture.
• 🐟 'Fesikh' is a traditional Egyptian salted fish dish typically eaten during Easter, though it can be an acquired taste and potentially dangerous if bought from unreliable sources.
• 🍬 There's a saying in Egypt: 'God makes syrup from Fesikh,' meaning good things can come from bad situations or people.
• 🖐️ The five-finger gesture is a cultural practice meant to ward off envy, often seen on doors or as decorations to protect against the 'evil eye.'
• 👁️ A hand with an eye in its center is sometimes displayed to further symbolize protection from envious gazes.
• ☕ In Egyptian culture, spilling coffee is considered good luck, contrary to many other cultures where it might be seen as unfortunate.
• 🎬 Many old Egyptian films, such as 'The Grandson,' depict traditional customs like the Isubua celebration.
• 🇪🇬 Egypt is an amazing place with rich traditions, and knowing these customs can enhance your visit and interactions with locals.

Q & A

What is the 'sailor's impossible invitation' in Egyptian culture?

The 'sailor's impossible invitation' refers to a humorous form of hospitality where someone invites another person to join them in an impossible situation, such as inviting a friend on the shore to have tea while they are on a boat. It is a playful tradition and not meant to be taken literally.

What is 'Isubua' and how is it celebrated in Egypt?

'Isubua' is a celebration held on the seventh day after a child's birth. It is deeply rooted in Egyptian culture and involves various customs, such as shaking a sieve and giving advice to the baby. While not as common today, it remains a significant cultural tradition.

What is 'El Fasikh,' and when is it traditionally eaten?

'El Fasikh' is a type of salted and preserved fish that is traditionally eaten during Easter in Egypt. It dates back to ancient Egyptian times, and while it is popular among many Egyptians, it is not universally liked due to its strong salty flavor.

What precautions do Egyptians take when buying 'El Fasikh'?

Egyptians are cautious when buying 'El Fasikh' as it can be dangerous if not prepared correctly. They ensure to buy it from trusted sellers known for providing high-quality products, as poor-quality fish can cause food poisoning.

What is the meaning of the Egyptian proverb involving 'El Fasikh' and 'Sherbet'?

The proverb 'God makes from the salty Fasikh, Sherbet' means that something good can come from something bad or unexpected. It is used to describe a situation where a person with bad manners has a child with a much better personality.

What is the significance of the five-finger gesture in Egyptian culture?

In Egyptian culture, the five-finger gesture is associated with protection from envy. The number five is believed to ward off the 'evil eye,' and this gesture is sometimes seen as a decoration on doors to protect households from envious people.

What does it mean if you spill coffee in Egypt?

In Egyptian culture, spilling coffee is considered a sign of good luck. If you accidentally spill coffee, it is believed that something good will happen, and this is a common superstition in the country.

Why is 'El Fasikh' considered difficult for foreigners to eat?

'El Fasikh' is heavily salted and has a very strong flavor, making it difficult for those unaccustomed to it. Its intense saltiness can also be hard on the stomach, which is why some foreigners may struggle to eat it.

How is the celebration of 'Isubua' depicted in Egyptian media?

The celebration of 'Isubua' is portrayed in various Egyptian movies, such as 'The Grandson (El Hafid).' In these films, the customs surrounding the celebration, like shaking a sieve and offering advice to the baby, are depicted, often in a humorous way.

How do Egyptians view the relationship between food and culture, as demonstrated by the discussion of 'El Fasikh'?

Egyptians view food as an integral part of their cultural traditions. The preparation and consumption of 'El Fasikh,' particularly during Easter, shows the deep historical connections between food and cultural identity, and even the caution in purchasing it reflects the importance of quality and tradition.