Articles (5)

This section offers some valuable insights into the customs and traditions of local libyans.  We also look at Islam as a religion and how it will impact you as a Westerner living in Libya.

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Communal Eating: The ten golden rules

As with other aspects of Libyan life, eating manners are ruled by both Islamic preaching and inherited customs.  Eating in groups of 4 or 5 from a communal bowl at the sofra (large tray or low table) is the norm in Libya and most of the Islamic world, using your hands or at most a spoon.  The etiquette that governs this is based upon the Prophet Mohammed’s (PBUH) teachings, with slight regional variations affected by local traditions and lifestyles.  Published November 2010.  > read more

Eid al-Adha: No vegetarians here

For a country in which most of the population lives along 1,770 km of Mediterranean coastline, I find it fascinating that lamb rather than fish is the protein of choice in the Libyan Diet. Lamb takes center stage in all Libyan meals and is considered a status symbol where wealth is measured by the size and abundance of meat served.  The most likely explanation for this stems from the tradition of the annual Festival of Sacrifice, Eid al-Adha ......  Published November 2010. > read more

Cultural Norms: An invitation to a Libyan family

It is not usual that Libyans invite foreigners (non-Arabs) to their houses for a meal, or even for a cup of tea, and if it does arise,  it means that this Libyan has sympathy for, and appreciates, this foreigner.  The reason why it does not occur often is because of the differences in culture ... > read more

Ramadan

On approximately August 11th 2010, Muslims around the world will begin the month-long fast of Ramadan. Ramadan is the month on the Islamic lunar calendar during which Muslims abstain from food, drink and other sensual pleasures from sunrise to sunset..  > read more

Dressing to impress

The majority of Libyans today have an unshakeable faith in Islam.  This faith shapes the society as a whole and has a strong bearing on how the average Libyan conducts his or her life. Even those Muslims who have ceased to believe fully in Islam retain Islamic habits and attitudes ... > read more