.

The Etiquette of Serving Arabic Coffee

In Arab cultures, the act of offering coffee is an important social gesture that serves as an expression of hospitality and respect for guests. Various customs guide how Arabic coffee is poured and who receives the first cup, reflecting the hierarchical importance of individuals in a given setting.

1. The First Cup: Who Should Receive It?

One of the most well-known traditions in the Arab world when serving coffee is the manner in which the first cup is presented. In public gatherings, it is customary to offer the first cup to the oldest person present. This act symbolizes respect for age and wisdom. In private settings, the first cup is traditionally given to the tribe’s Sheikh or the most notable individual, as a mark of honor.

However, when offering tea, the custom changes. The first cup of tea is served from the far right to the left, symbolizing a form of order and respect, as guests typically sit in a sequence that recognizes their status and importance in the gathering.

2. The Gesture of Refusal: “Kafa” (Shake the Cup)

If a guest does not wish to receive more coffee, they signal their preference by gently shaking the cup. This gesture, known as “kafa,” communicates to the host that the guest does not want a refill. If the guest does not shake the cup, the host will continue to pour coffee, demonstrating hospitality and a desire to serve their guests.

3. “Sabbat Al-Heshma” – The Art of Pouring Coffee

In the culture of serving Arabic coffee, the amount of coffee poured into the cup is critical, as it carries significant meaning. The term “Sabbat Al-Heshma” refers to the practice of only filling the cup to one-third of its capacity. This practice is symbolic in that it prevents overfilling, which could suggest that the guest is unwelcome. If the cup is overfilled, it may indicate that the guest is expected to leave after drinking, as an overfilled cup implies the conclusion of the hospitality. This delicate balance of pouring signifies the importance of maintaining harmonious social interactions and preserving the dignity of both host and guest.

The Role of the Coffee Server: The Dallah and the Guest’s Role

The person pouring the coffee, often called the "qahwa maker," holds the Dallah (the traditional coffee pot) with their left hand and the cup with their right hand. This specific method of holding and pouring reflects the importance of ritual and formality in the serving process. When the coffee is poured, the cup taps gently against the front of the Dallah, creating a distinct ring that signifies to the guest that their coffee is ready.

Once served, the guest must stand when receiving the coffee as a sign of respect. If a guest does not wish to receive more coffee, they shake the cup, signaling the end of the coffee-serving process. This subtle gesture is understood by the host, who will cease pouring.

The Naming of Coffee Cups: Symbolism and Meaning

In Arab culture, each cup of coffee served carries a specific name and significance. The tradition of naming the coffee cups has both practical and symbolic purposes, reflecting the varying stages of a guest’s experience during their visit.

1. Fenjan El-Heif (The First Cup)

The first cup of coffee, called “Fenjan El-Heif,” is traditionally consumed by the host before offering it to the guest. Historically, this practice was performed to ensure the guest that the coffee was not poisoned. Today, it remains a way for the host to demonstrate that the coffee is free from any defects or contaminants. The host’s act of drinking the first cup serves as an assurance to the guest of their safety.

2. Fenjan El-Keif (The Cup of Joy)

The first cup that the guest receives is called “Fenjan El-Keif,” which signifies the joy of hospitality. This cup is offered with the expectation that the guest will drink it as a mark of respect and acknowledgment of the host’s generosity. It is a duty of the host to offer this cup, as it serves as a reflection of their role in providing hospitality. The guest must drink the coffee, except in cases of hostility or if the guest has a specific request of the host. In historical settings, the cup also signified that the host would fulfill any request made by the guest.

3. Fenjan El-Keif (The Second Cup)

The second cup is also referred to as “Fenjan El-Keif,” and it is the one that the guest can drink if they wish, without any obligation. It carries no additional responsibility and is typically enjoyed for the pleasure of the coffee itself. Drinking this cup is seen as a sign of appreciation, but not consuming it does not cause any embarrassment to the host.

4. Fenjan El-Seif (The Cup of Support)

The “Fenjan El-Seif” is the fourth cup, and its significance is deeply rooted in the concept of solidarity and support. This cup is drunk to symbolize a willingness to stand by the host in times of need. The responsibilities it signifies are quite serious, and it is often left untouched by many guests who do not wish to take on the obligations associated with it.

Arabic Coffee Traditions in Jordan

Arabic coffee has a central place in the culture and daily life of Jordanians, and the customs surrounding its preparation and serving are rich in tradition. The traditions vary somewhat across different regions of the Arab world, but in Jordan, the following customs are particularly significant:

1. The Role of the Coffee Maker: “Al-Fidawi”

In Jordan, the person who prepares and serves the coffee is often called “Al-Fidawi.” This person is responsible for the artful preparation and careful serving of the coffee, ensuring that each guest is served with respect and generosity. The Al-Fidawi is skilled in the delicate art of coffee pouring and is entrusted with ensuring that the coffee service reflects the values of hospitality.

2. Proper Posture When Serving Coffee

When pouring coffee, the host must bend slightly to ensure the cup is within the guest’s reach. This small but significant gesture reflects the respect the host has for the guest. Historian Dr. Muhammad Abu Hassan recalls an experience in which a host who failed to bend slightly when offering coffee was considered disrespectful. The guest was upset by this breach of etiquette, and the host apologized and insisted on offering the coffee properly.

3. The Importance of Continuous Conversation

In Jordanian culture, coffee is a bridge to communication. The serving of coffee is intertwined with the ongoing conversation. It is a norm that the first cup should be drunk before any conversation can continue, symbolizing the start of dialogue and connection between the host and guest. The coffee is considered an opening ritual that facilitates meaningful exchange.

4. The Host’s Responsibility to Serve Every Guest

It is considered a serious oversight for the host to forget to serve coffee to any of the guests, whether intentionally or by mistake. The coffee man must be vigilant and perceptive, ensuring that each guest is served, as neglecting a guest can be seen as a significant breach of hospitality.

5. The Symbolism of the Amount of Coffee in the Cup

In Jordan, the amount of coffee served is typically modest, with the cup being filled only to a small portion of its capacity. The practice of filling the cup just enough to cover a tablespoon’s worth of liquid symbolizes generosity without excess. Jordanians describe this as a balance between abundance and restraint, ensuring that the coffee pot is enough to serve all guests without overindulgence.

6. The Groom’s Visit to Ask for Marriage

In certain traditions, particularly in the context of a marriage proposal, coffee serves as a symbol of negotiation and agreement. When a groom visits the family of a bride-to-be, the coffee served is initially left untouched. The host then inquires about the reason for not drinking the coffee, and after an exchange of greetings and discussions, the host will serve the coffee, signaling that an agreement has been reached.

Arabic coffee is more than just a beverage; it is a symbol of hospitality, respect, and tradition. The intricate customs surrounding its preparation, serving, and consumption reflect the values of generosity and community that are central to Arab culture. Whether in public or private gatherings, the act of serving Arabic coffee carries with it layers of meaning, demonstrating the host’s honor and commitment to their guest. From the significance of the first cup to the importance of the coffee maker, these traditions continue to play a vital role in fostering social connections and reinforcing cultural norms within Arab societies.