The Socio-Anthropological Value of Oraland Intangible Expressions of the Bedu in Southern Jordan

Abstract

Oral and intangible expressions of the Bedu in southern Jordan represent a very valuable legacy for humanity, that has been developed through a very sophisticated process of adaptation and interaction between man and nature. By oral and intangible expressions I mean all forms of non written expressions such as story telling, songs, poetry, dances, games...etc. Oral and intangible expressions of the Bedu are reflecting the particular form of cultural responses that the Bedu have developed while they were adapting to the natural environment. As such, it is extremely important to study and analyze the Bedouin oral and intangible expressions. This article is trying to analyze the historical, social, anthropological and economical value of the oral and intangible expressions of the Bedouin society in southern Jordan. One of the basic assumptions is that these expressions have a double value; universalistic and particularistic. By universalistic, I refer to the value that these expressions represent for the whole humanity. In return, by the particularistic value of these expressions I refer to the local and particular elements of this heritage which is valuable for the Jordan and the region.