APRIL 28, 2012 · 6:44 PM

Table Manners
The Moroccan culture is very community oriented. Families tend
to be tight knit, neighbors know each other well, and basic
greetings are an extended task. Many things that would not be
communal in the United States are generally shared amongst
people in Morocco. Human bonds are strongly emphasized here
because these ideas are deeply rooted within the traditions of the local culture. Where this
mentality has many intriguing aspects, some people might see a few downsides. If my last
blog entry about bathing wasn’t a strong enough indicator, I am going to allude to this again,
Moroccans do not believe in personal space. Everything belongs to the community, everyone
knows about everyone else, and the spread of germs from person to person isn’t even
considered.
Germaphobes beware, the average Moroccan could care less
about where your hands have been. This can be exhibited at
every meal. When I got to Morocco my idea about what
community mindedness meant was truly expanded. Coming to
the table one can forget about forks, spoons, knives; if it is an
eating utensil you won’t be needing it. In fact, a person won’t
even get their own personal plate in a traditional Moroccan
setting.
It is all about the hands! One giant plate of food will be placed in
the middle of the table for everyone to eat from. Hands are used
far more commonly than a fork in Morocco, connecting back to the
importance of human relationships. This can take some getting
used to, especially with hygiene regarded so importantly in
western culture. Many people would turn away from just using
their hands because we are taught from a young age that it isn’t
polite. However, just because only hands are used doesn’t mean
that there is a lack of manners. There are a number of rules one must remember when eating
with a Moroccan family:
1. Only use your right hand, unless you are using your left to help tear bread. Left hand
users are hshuma (shameful) in Moroccan culture.
2. Don’t lick your fingers until the end of the meal.
3. Only eat from the part of the communal bowl directly in front of you.
4. Work your way from the outside of the plate inward.
5. Save the meat till last. It is best to wait till the head of the house takes the first bite of
meat, then you know you are safe.
6. Someone should always say “Bismilla” at the beginning of the meal.
I see using hands as a form of linking oneself closer to those around them, as well as a way
of becoming more acquainted with each meal. I have always found that I can get more
involved with a painting that I am creating when I don’t use a brush. I generally start off with
just my hands and then add the smaller details with a brush later. Physically touching the
paint is much different than using the extended arm that the brush acts as. When eating
food, hands can act as a gateway within the meal, allowing people to have a deeper
connection with their food. I still prefer to use utensils when I can because it is hard for me
to forget about the possible germs involved sometimes. But I have gotten used to my new
meal routine and have grown to understand the benefits in small ways. Shwiya b shwiya,
everything falls into place little by little!
3.) Table Manners and Etiquette
 Moroccan people are among the most hospitable in the world. They are warm and open
to making new friends with anyone they encounter. It would not be typical for them to
extend an invitation to their house just moments after you meet them, but once a
friendship is established they can be the most loyal and trustworthy friends.
 Here are some guidelines for Moroccan Etiquette:
 If invited to a Moroccan house:
 Remove your shoes
 Dress smartly to show respect
 Check to see if your spouse is invited because conservative Moroccans may not host
mixed sex groups
 Shake everyone's hands individually
*Watch your manners at the table!!
 Table Etiquette:
 Food is generally served at a knee-high round table.
 The guest of honour generally sits next to the host.
 A washing basin will be brought to the table before the meal is served. Hold your hands
over the basin while water is poured over them. Dry your hands on the towel provided.
 Do not begin eating until the host blesses the food or begins to eat.
 Food is served from a communal bowl.
 Eat from the section of the bowl that is in front of you. Never reach across the bowl to
get something from the other side. As an honoured guest, choice cuts will be put in
front of you.
 Scoop the food with a piece of bread or the thumb and first two fingers of the right
hand.
 Eat and drink only with the right hand.
 Do not wipe your hands on your napkin.
 Water is often served from a communal glass. If you want your own glass, ask for a soft
drink.
 The washing basin will be brought around the table again at the end of the meal.
 Expect to be urged to take more food