The tribal system
THE CLAN ORGANIZATION is the basis of Bedouin society until today. Every tent represents a family; every camp makes up a clan. A number of kindred clans make a tribe. All members of the same clan consider each other as of one blood and superior.
The tent and its few household contents are individual property, while water and pasturage are tribal property.
The spirit of the clan demands unconditional loyalty to fellow clansmen. The society in which he lives levels everything down. The strong belief in his tribal superiority and in return the tribal security gave him the support to survive in hostile environment.
The clan is represented by a Sheikh, chosen by the tribe members. He is not an absolute authority since in major affairs he must consult with the tribal council. The Bedouin in fact is a born democrat. He meets his sheikh on equal base. No wonder that discipline and respect for order and authority are not among his ideals.
The Bedouin is aristocratic as well looking upon himself as the personified perfection of creation. To the Bedouin the Arabian nation is the noblest of all nations, purity of blood, way of life, and above all noble ancestry. He often traces his lineage back to the times of the prophet Mohammed and beyond.
He is open-minded and interested in what is going on in his close and far surroundings since this kind of knowledge has always been a vital tool of survival. At the same time he is very suspicious and alert keeping a low profile about his own personal background.
(quoted from sinai4you)
