Welcome to the whirlwind of Lebanese traditions, where returning Tupperware is a sacred duty, 7Up becomes a magical elixir, and the art of greeting everyone could rival a royal reception.
Buckle up for a journey through a cultural maze that might leave foreigners both amused and bewildered:
1. Zaatar For Wisdom
Want to enhance cognitive abilities? Eat more zaatar.
“Zaatar b awe lzekra” as our moms prepared us a sandwich on exam day.
Cheaper breakfast? No. Brainpower boost? Yes.
2. The Title Reversal
How do we explain to non-Arabs why our dads call us ‘baba’ and our moms call us ‘mama’?
Well, as a form of endearment, our parents call us ‘mama’ or ‘baba’. It’s like our own special language of love.
If they call you by your actual name, that’s when you know you’re in trouble.
3. Tupperware Return Policy
In Lebanese households, returning borrowed Tupperware is practically a moral obligation. And don’t you even think of doing so without filling it with some kind of home-cooked meal or sweets; that’s how you show your appreciation.
FYI: Any kind of container is Tupperware, from repurposed plastic takeout containers to recycled yogurt cups. Tupperware is not just a brand; it’s a lifestyle.
4. 7Up Magic Potion
Feeling under the weather? Do you have an upset stomach? Did you fall and break your leg?
Fear not, Tetas will cure you with the healing power of 7Up – the only medicine you won’t find on any pharmacy shelf. To them, it’s up there with holy water.
5. Prayer Against The Evil Eye
Ever experienced a sudden wave of unwellness or noticed envious glances when you’re looking sharp? Ah, the evil eye might be at play!
In such cases, a ritual called “ra2we” might be in order. It involves praying over a glass of water and having the afflicted person sip it. Voila, all better!
6. Compliment Offers
If you compliment something a Lebanese person has, be prepared to receive it as a gift.
“That’s a nice car.” And before you know it, you’re being handed the keys with a “You like the car? Take the car. Take it, Wallah. It’s yours.”
7. Gunfire Confetti
Shooting real bullets at weddings and graduations may sound alarming, but it’s a traditional way to celebrate joyous occasions in Lebanon.
It’s just our unique way of saying, “Let’s celebrate with a bang!”
8. The Bill Battle
Paying the bill can turn into a friendly (or not-so-friendly) competition among Lebanese friends or family members, each insisting on covering the expenses as a gesture of hospitality.
In this generosity showdown where wallets clash and egos collide, may the strongest and fastest emerge victorious.
9. Gift Galore
Visiting a Lebanese home is like playing Santa.
It’s not just a visit, it’s an opportunity to show the host your generosity either by bringing flowers, or sweets.
10. The Inshallah Dilemma
Expressing hope, uncertainty, or a polite deflection, all in one word.
When it’s “Inshallah” with a full heart, you know a dinner invitation is sealed with genuine hope and anticipation. But toss it into a conversation about deadlines or commitments, and suddenly it’s the Lebanese version of “I’ll try best, but let’s not hold our breath.”
11. Extravagant Weddings
In Lebanon, weddings are less “I do” and more “I do it big!”, with a couple of hundred attendees ensuring the party is bigger.
When it comes to attire, forget about dressing modestly to avoid outshining the bride; in Lebanon, guests are expected to wear their most stunning ensembles, with elaborate dresses and suits.
Pro Tip: Prepare your eardrums, for when the zaghruta erupts, it’s not just a sound; it’s a force of nature that could part the seas and shatter glass.
As we wrap up our tour of Lebanese traditions that could knock the socks off even the most intrepid traveler, remember this: when in doubt, just say Inshallah and go with the flow, you’ll fit right in!
Related: Lebanese People Are Sharing Their Weird Food Combos, And You Might Actually Be Down For It
