Many of us love our coffee in the morning, as an alone-time ritual. Among the Bedouin tribes of Arabia, though, the ancient tradition of coffee drinking is a particularly important cultural custom. Serving coffee, known as “gahwa”, is a treasured aspect of Bedouin life that creates and reinforces harmony, within their own society as well as for outside diplomacy.
(See Bedouin life slideshow).
The Bedouin are people of the desert and mountains, scattered throughout the Arabian peninsula, and although they live what many would consider a sparse life, they are known for their generosity and genial reception of guests, whether strangers or friends. It is a matter of celebration to receive a visitor, and a sojourner will most certainly experience the hospitality of the coffee ceremony.
Imagine that you are a traveler in the desert and have had the good fortune to be the guest of a Bedouin family. Here is the scenario: You would find yourself sitting comfortably in a cool tent, while your host carried out “gahwa”, the coffee ritual. First he would roast the beans, then let them cool. Next, he’d grind both the beans and some fresh cardamom, which he’d mix with the grounds. After brewing, the host would pour the strong liquid into a small cup, which would of course be refilled for you, unless you shake it to indicate that you do not want any more. Delicious dates, a staple in Arabia, would also be served along with the coffee. In return for this lavish attention and honor, you are expected to converse, giving up any bits of information and news you’ve picked up along your way. This is the full circle of giving and receiving in the Bedouin community.
Starbucks has nothing on this. The Bedouin culture and coffee have been intimately interwoven for so long that coffee is part of their identity. It’s a ritual that is timeless, and brings people together in joy and benevolence, community and fellowship.
Local note: For a taste of coffee similar to the Bedouin style, check out Falafel King in Boulder or Denver for an authentic Turkish coffee.
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