Cultural Characteristics of the Middle East Answers

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: The two most significant religious sites in the Middle East are the cities of Jerusalem and Mecca. Jerusalem, located in Israel, is considered to be one of the holiest cities in the world. The city is unique in that it’s sacred to three major world religions - Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Jews have ancient historical and political roots in the city, Christians value the city for the role it played in Jesus’ life, and Muslims believe that Muhammad rose to heaven there. Mecca, located in Saudi Arabia, is a holy site for Muslims, and only Muslims are permitted to enter the city. Mecca is believed to be the birthplace of Muhammad. If they are able, all Muslims are required to make a pilgrimage there at least once in their lives.

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: In the Middle East, people who live in rural areas have very different lives from those who live in urban areas. The region was originally made up of rural communities, making these communities more traditional in nature. However, with 60% of the region’s population now living in cities, the Middle East is increasingly moving toward a more urban lifestyle. People in rural areas tend to make a living by working in agriculture as farmers and herders. City residents are focused on the manufacturing and service industries. In rural areas, many people live with their extended families; as more people move to the cities, however, these extended families begin to break apart. Thus, smaller families are more common in the cities. Clothing preferences differ as well, with those in rural areas preferring more traditional clothing and those in cities choosing Western-style clothing. People who live in urban areas also have greater access to advanced technology and communication.

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: Afghanistan is one of the most underdeveloped countries in the Middle East. Most people live in rural areas, with some of the poorest living conditions in the world. The economy of Afghanistan is based around agriculture, with little else to provide income. The country is dependent on foreign aid to get by due to housing, food, and water shortages and a lack of medical care and employment opportunities. These shortages cause Afghanistan to have by far the lowest life expectancy in the Middle East, at 45 years. Literacy rates are also among the lowest in the region, with men at 43% and women at 13% literacy.

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: Islam is the most common religion in the Middle East, with a regional population of over 90% Muslim. Having such a large influence in the region, Islam greatly impacts the culture there. Examples include Food: Religion may dictate what people eat and how it’s prepared. Muslims’ religious practices forbid them from eating pork or drinking alcohol. Clothing: Islam promotes modest dressing, so many traditional Muslims make sure to cover their bodies, especially in public. For example, women may be required to cover their faces with veils. Language: Many people learn the Arabic language to read the Islamic holy book, the Qur’an, in its original form. Government: Muslim religious principles are part of the governmental systems and laws in most countries. Rituals: Muslims practice certain rituals each week, such as praying 5 times a day and not working on Fridays because they are holy days. Family: Many Muslims live in extended families, as family is seen as the foundation of society.