Palestine has a complicated and controversial history. It is believed that this region has been under 13 separate occupations, including the Assyrians, Greek and Roman Empires, and the Ottoman Empire. Following World War II, the area was controlled under British mandate. At that time, Great Britain began to establish Palestine as a Jewish homeland as part of the Zionist movement. This began much of the modern conflict that shapes Palestinian nationalism and patriotism today.
Today, Palestine comprises the Gaza Strip along the coast and sections of the West Bank, situated on the east side of Jerusalem. Some countries consider it an independent state, while others do not. Even without recognized borders and sovereignty, the Palestinian people are passionate about their nation and its abundant culture. *It is important to note that many Palestinians (and their allies/supporters) still consider Historic Palestine to be the true boundaries of Palestine.*
The Culture of Palestine is closely related to those of its nearby countries such as Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan. Major aspects of Palestinian society and culture include customs, religion, language, literature, art, costume, and music of the land and its inhabitants.
Palestinian Food and Cuisine
Palestinian staple foods include bread, meat, cheese, rice, sauces, soups, and desserts. As expected, proximity to the Mediterranean influences the flavors of Palestine. Herbs and spices play a very important role in Palestinian food. Za’atar is very popular and we recommend that you try it! Accompanying every mouth-watering dish are choices of beverages including coffee, tea, orange juice, Limonada, and many more.
Palestinian culture revolves around food; from day-to-day life to weddings and celebrations, food comes into every aspect. Mealtimes are not simply about nutrition. They are often social occasions. Food culture in Palestine is about spending time with family and friends, showing generous hospitality to guests, and making an event special. From weddings to fast-breaking at iftar gatherings and Eid celebrations, most celebrations and ceremonies include food.
As in many other countries, there is strong national pride in the dishes and traditions revolving around food. Palestine is famous for dishes like maqlubeh, kunafeh, and numerous others. There are lots of sweet and savory offerings. Although most Palestinians include meat in their diet, it is perfectly possible to follow a plant-based diet here.
Languages Spoken in Palestine
Arabic is primarily spoken as a first language in Palestine. However, many citizens also speak some English and an even smaller amount, Hebrew. Within the Arabic language, however, there are numerous dialects. Palestine and its Arab neighbors (e.g. Jordan and Syria) speak a dialect from the subgroup of Levantine Arabic.
Modern Standard Arabic is used throughout the Arab world and will also be understood in Palestine. During your time in Palestine, you will probably find it easy to pick up a selection of Arabic words and phrases. This means that you will soon be able to greet people in Arabic! If you wish to study the Arabic language, we have several course options available at the Excellence Center.
The Palestinian dialect (اللهجة الفلسطينية)
The Palestinian dialect (اللهجة الفلسطينية) serves as the everyday spoken language understood by the Palestinian people. Some words in Modern Standard Arabic are not used in day-to-day conversation. Therefore, some people may not understand the more formal language.
| Native speakers | 13 Million |
| Language family | Afro-Asiatic > Semitic |
| Dialects | Fellahi; Madani |
| Writing system | Arabic alphabet |
| Dialect varieties | Intelligible varieties of Levantine Arabic |
However, the Palestinian dialect is one of the closest dialects to Modern Standard Arabic. If you have studied this subject or learned some basic phrases in MSA you will find that it is relatively simple to pick up the Palestinian dialect. Learning the Palestinian dialect is a great way to build upon your knowledge and expand your language skills.
Religion
Palestine is located in the Holy Land for believers of Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. The religious populations in Palestine are, of course, Muslims, Christians, and to a lesser extent, Jews. A modern estimate suggests that over 90% of the population identifies as Muslim. The Sunni sect or division is the Muslim majority in the region. The Christian population is around 6% and the remainder are likely Jewish or secular.
Christians and Muslims in Palestine
Palestinian culture is based on not only helping family members and neighbors but also passersby and other guests. A Palestinian person will automatically offer any possible help that they can. Despite their differing views, Christians and Muslims live alongside one another, which lends 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. They both share the same location in Manger Square in the heart of Bethlehem city.
Palestinian Culture and Customs
The prevalence of Islam and interaction with neighboring countries have influenced much of the core of Palestine’s customs and conventions. Close government ties between and immigration among Lebanon, Jordan, Syria, and other countries of the Arab world have resulted in similar norms across this region. Palestinian culture in general is a rich array of contrasts from Western culture and is unique and impressive.
Palestinian people are well known for being incredibly hospitable. They might invite you to have tea or coffee even if you have just met them. Palestinians trust people very quickly and they enjoy meeting with internationals from all over the world and spending time with them.
The Palestinian philosophy is to take care of their guests whoever they are. They will try to make their guests feel comfortable. They treat them as if they have known them for a long time or as if they are part of the family. A Palestinian friend will invite you to go out with them often, check up on you regularly, and be your friend for a lifetime.
Theatre, Dance, and Arts Groups
Despite the ongoing political deadlock, Palestinian society has been instrumental in the preservation of native theatre, dance, and various arts groups. With the help of numerous NGOs, as well as an eager international audience and concerned activists, Palestine has ensured the continuation of the arts.
The Cultural Life of Palestinians
The cultural life of Palestinians did take a setback amidst the crushing burden that was the Second Intifada. However, with those dark days behind them, the famed resoluteness of the Palestinian people ensured this was only a setback. In recent times, the region has experienced a cultural revival. At the heart of this revival has been Ramallah, the de facto capital of Palestine.
Ramallah is a slightly more liberal city than Hebron or Nablus. It has recovered from the days when many parts of the city were attacked by Israeli forces and Yasser Arafat was put under siege. Since then, Ramallah has revived itself through a dedication to restoring Palestinian culture.
Now, Ramallah still faces its challenges. However, it bustles with the energy of a people determined to make a sustainable, vibrant life for themselves. With a constant selection of shows and performances, Ramallah has something to offer the culturally interested traveler. The city is experiencing a cultural art resurgence.
Palestinians Love an Exchange of Culture
Palestinians are eager to show the rest of the world their culture. They have not always had the opportunity to do so and are therefore keen to share knowledge and allow international visitors to experience their homeland. They will gladly engage visitors in many different family and cultural activities and celebrate Palestine. This will make your trip to Palestine full of amazing memories and enjoyable moments.
Locals not only wish to show you Palestinian culture. They are also equally keen to learn about other people’s cultures and how they spend their time. It gives them a glimpse into another culture and way of life.
Israeli Control Over Palestine
Unfortunately, Israel fully controls the Palestinian borders, deciding who enters and who does not. In addition, Palestine does not have an airport. In 2000, Israeli forces destroyed The Yasser Arafat International Airport in Gaza.
These two facts contribute to Palestine receiving fewer visitors compared to countries that control their borders more freely, allowing easier access for visitors. Nonetheless, this makes Palestinians more eager to host internationals who come from different countries around the globe with open arms.
Palestinians are Friendly!
During your time here, you will be surrounded by people who want to help to make your trip to Palestine enjoyable. You might hear them saying “Hello” or “Welcome to Palestine” or “How are you?”. They will be keen to help you find what you are looking for. All these greetings act as a sign of hospitality and eagerness. We are always glad to have you here.
Palestinians strive to make you feel comfortable and welcome on their sacred land and among their people, regardless of your origin.
A Visitor’s Experience of the West Bank
Tara visited the West Bank in February of 2020:
“I traveled to Palestine in February 2020, I was based in Abu Dis but traveled around most of the West Bank. The overriding feeling was that of being welcome wherever I went. The residents of Abu Dis soon recognized me and were happy to chat. They helped me practice my Arabic, and generally assisted me in any way possible. They offered advice and expressed concern for my welfare, always being pleased to know when I returned safely from my excursions. Nothing was ever too much trouble.
The people I met in various towns and cities were all extremely hospitable. I was invited into a family home in Jerusalem. I celebrated my birthday with a woman in Abu Dis who shared the same birthday. Upon learning that I work with and have an interest in horses, the organizer of our trip to Jericho arranged a visit to the local stables. I would recommend Palestinian hospitality to anyone! If you ever find the intense hospitality overwhelming, just remember that Palestinians only want to ensure you are well looked after. They want you to be comfortable and have everything you need.”
Meeting New People in Palestine
Visiting Palestine is an exceptional opportunity for you to meet Palestinian people. One can experience their daily life, learn Palestinian Arabic, and 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 unique to living in Europe, the US, Asia, South America, or Australia. In Palestine, intensive social interactions and a spontaneous lifestyle characterize daily life. People do not organize their activities according to prearranged plans. There is a strong sense of hospitality and an eagerness to know about others and the wider world.
Palestine is Culturally Rich
Despite the occupation and the one-sided news that filters out of Palestine, the region of Palestine is as culturally rich as its people are welcoming. If you’re seeking a cultural experience, there’s no better place to visit than this part of the world.
Final Remarks
Your time in Palestine will be rich and rewarding. No matter how long you have to spend immersed in this culture, it will be time well spent. It is incredibly easy to engage in Palestinian culture and feel more than just a tourist. If you take time to make friends and walk the unbeaten path, you will have more pictures, stories, and adventures than you could have imagined.
Though cultural differences will likely exist, you will find yourself welcomed and appreciated at a home away from home. Most international visitors, interns, students, and volunteers adapt relatively easily to life in Palestine and enjoy a change of scenery and pace.
Finally, we encourage you to arrive with an open mind, be eager to learn, and be motivated to participate in Palestinian culture. You will have a richer experience this way and leave knowing more about Palestinian food, language, religion, and zeal for life. We encourage you to document your experiences and share your love of Palestine with others. This helps to raise awareness and may encourage others to visit the West Bank and experience life in Palestine.
We are sure you will have a wonderful and unforgettable stay here in Palestine.
