Strolling through Egyptian streets, markets, and smaller neighborhoods, one often hears expressions like khaly ‘alena or etfadalo ma’ana. Yet, whether they are empty words or a serious invitation – we rarely stop to think about what they tell us about Egyptian culture. The Sailor’s Invitation and Its Cultural Interpretation Invitation phrases that are not always meant to be taken literally permeate Egyptian daily life. Khaly ‘alena can be translated as “Leave it to us” or “Let us take care of it” and is commonly used as an invitation to cover expenses. The statement is not reserved for acquaintances, but equally prevalent among complete strangers, and even in commercial settings such as local shops and restaurants. Etfadalo ma’ana, meaning “Join us”, are very common words to hear when you pass by a group of people who are eating food, and serve as an invitation to partake in their gathering. In Egyptian Arabic, there is a term for such statements: ‘ozumet ‘marakbeya, which literally translates to a “sailor’s invitation” – an invitation that is virtually impossible to fulfill. The story goes that, in the past, sailors would invite people standing on the…
Cultural Gestures of Hospitality: Ozumet Marakbeya and its Cultural Counterparts
July 24, 2023
