The emphasis on hospitality for which the Arab population of Jordan is famous has its roots in more than good manners.  By means of this institution, vital information is acquired and shared.  Traveling "story tellers" remind tribal members of their common values; traveling merchants inform them of new opportunities; distant members of the tribe or visiting strangers may bring warning of threats to their security and way of life.  The institution, therefore, plays a crucial, pracitcal role in communicating information vital to tribal solidarity and survival.

Reference: http://www.hf-fak.uib.no/smi/paj/LaBianca.html

 

 

Edited 1/26/06 tlc