Nablus: Culture, Food and Religion
People the world over are similar but there are differences of culture, food, and religion. Learning about these and experiencing them is fun.
Culture
Disruption and ongoing occupation have threatened Palestinian culture but there are efforts to revive and maintain it.
Dabke
Dabke is a traditional Arabic folk dance that has its roots in Palestine and with powerful links to the importance of family and community.
It is often performed at family gatherings, weddings and celebrations. It is seen as a form of cultural resistance against the occupation.
It is practised by many young people – both male and female.
We are lucky to have had Dabke dancers from Palestine come to Dundee and to have danced in the city square.
Palestinian food
There is a rich tradition of Palestinian cuisine based on olive oil and other local produce.
Olive Oil
The olive tree is an important symbol of Palestine, particularly economically. Not only is it a key ingredient of Nablus soap, but it produces high quality olive oil.
Za’atar
Za’atar is a blend of herbs – thyme, oregano, and marjoram – toasted sesame seeds, sumac, salt and olive oil. It is used in many Palestinian recipes, including Mana’eesh bread.
Embroidery
The art of traditional embroidery, or tatreez as it is known in Arabic, is a very important symbol of Palestinian culture and identity.
The skills, designs and artistic tradition are passed down and preserved through the generations and have been practised for many centuries.
The patterns and colours used will often signify which village or town the maker or wearer is from.
Since the Nakba in 1948, the art of tatreez, like Dabke, has become a symbol of Palestinian resistance.
Knafeh
Nablus is particularly known for its knafeh. This iconic sweet has sweetened cheese within strands of pastry, covered with pistachios and orange colouring with sugar syrup. Far more delicious than it might sound. It’s the special local cheese that gives it the edge over its rivals.
Religions in Nablus
Palestine is the cradle of many religious traditions, many of which survive to this day.
Most of the people in Nablus are Muslim but it also has a Christian and Samaritan community.
There are many mosques, including An-Nasr Mosque with its green dome and the city’s oldest, the Great Mosque of Nablus.
Nablus is also home to several churches, including St Philip’s Episcopal church in the Old City. The minister, Father Jamil, and his wife, Loma, have recently visited our city, as guests of St Luke’s church, Dundee.
The Samaritans are a small religious community, which considers itself Palestinian but shares its religious roots with Judaism. Nablus is central to their beliefs as they regard Mount Gerizim as their holiest site.
