The Culture of Palestine is closely related to those of its nearby countries such as Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan. The major aspects of Palestinian Society and Culture include: customs, religion, language, literature, art, costume and music of the land and its inhabitants.
Palestinian Cuisine
The favorite Palestine foods include: bread, meat, cheese, rice, sauces, soups and desserts. Herbs and spices play a very important role in Palestine food. Accompanying every mouth-watering dish there are choices of beverages including: coffee, tea, orange Juice, Limonada and many more.
Languages Spoken in Palestine
The languages that are mostly spoken in Palestine are of course Arabic, some English and a smaller amount of Hebrew. Arabic has many dialects and the dialect spoken in Palestine comes from the subgroup of Levantine Arabic. Modern Standard Arabic is used throughout the Arab world and will also be understood in Palestine.
Religions in Palestine
The major religions practiced in Palestine are of course Islam, plus Christianity and to a lesser extent, Judaism. The Sunni Muslims are the predominant Muslims living in Palestine.
Palestinian Culture & Customs
Palestine customs and conventions are closely related to those of its neighboring countries of Lebanon, Jordan, Syria and other countries of the Arab world.
Palestinian culture is a rich array of contrasts from western culture and it is unique and impressive. Palestinian people are well known for being incredibly hospitable, where you might be invited to have a tea or coffee with someone you have just met. Palestinians trust people very quickly and they enjoy meeting with internationals from all over the world and spending time with them. They are raised on the philosophy of taking care of their guests whoever they are and to make them feel comfortable as if they had known them for long time or as if they are part of the family.
Palestinians are eager to show internationals Palestinian culture and engage with them in many different family and cultural activities, which will make your trip to Palestine full of amazing memories and enjoyable moments. Not only will they wish to show you Palestinian culture but also they are equally very keen to learn of other peoples’ cultures and get to know about their daily habits and how they spend their time.
Palestinian culture is based on not only helping family members and neighbors but also passersby whoever that person may be. A Palestinian person will automatically offer any possible help that they can. Moreover and despite their differing views, Christians and Muslims live alongside one another, which lends a harmony to the entire area of Palestine. This harmony imbues Palestine with a special beauty. An example of this harmony is the site of the Church of the Nativity and the Mosque of Omar bin al-Khattab, both sharing the same location in Manger Square in the heart of Bethlehem city.
It is known that the Palestinian borders are fully controlled by Israel which decides who enters and who does not. Added to this, Palestine does not have its own airport. These two facts result in Palestine having less numbers of visitors compared to other countries that have control over their own borders, where visitors can visit more easily. Nonetheless, this makes Palestinians more eager to host internationals who come from different countries around the globe and they do so with open arms.
During your time here, people who are eager to help you enjoy your journey to Palestine will surround you. You might hear them saying “Hello” or “Welcome to Palestine” or “How are you?” or help you to find what you are looking for, as a sign of hospitability and eagerness. They want to make sure that you feel totally comfortable and welcome on their land and among their people no matter from which country you come from.
Visiting Palestine
Visiting Palestine is an exceptional opportunity for you to meet Palestinian people, to live their daily life or to learn Palestinian Arabic, and to observe the Israeli-Palestinian conflict first-hand. Most importantly, it is an opportunity to significantly and positively influence the lives of Palestinians.
As you have read above, living in Palestine is totally different from living in Europe, the USA, Asia, South America or Australia. Life in Palestine is characterized by intensive social interactions, a spontaneous life style (people and the way of doing things are not organized according to prearranged plans), hospitality, and an eagerness to know about others.
It is incredibly easy to engage in Palestinian culture. Most international visitors adapt relatively easily to life in Palestine. Finally, we encourage you to arrive with an open mind, to be eager to learn, and to be motivated for engagement in Palestinian culture. We are sure you will have a wonderful and unforgettable stay in Palestine.
How to reach us out?
Please send an email to info@gopalestine.org. In the body of the email tell us of your interest or ask any questions you may have. Very shortly we will reply to you!