Field Trips, Museums, Landmarks
Days in Jordan are typically packed with class, homework, or excursions. Although this can get a bit tiring, I truly feel that each are important when you are truly trying to learn about a language, culture, and people. Throughout my time in Jordan thus far, we have seen numerous Roman Amphitheater’s and various other ruins. To someone who is just going through the motions, this could appear a bit repetitive. However, the history and the culture enveloped in each place that we visit is completely overwhelming if you stop to reflect every so often.
Thus far, our excursions have done a wonderful job of introducing us to the history, culture, religion, and people of Jordan. A recent trip to King Abdullah Mosque, for example, gave me a small introduction into the Muslim Religion and beliefs. It also started my greater understanding of women and their role in society in the Middle East and, particularly, in Jordan. For the first time since we arrived, all of the females had to wear headscarves and abayas (provided by the Mosque) – we were covered from head to toe. Initially, for me, this was just ‘something we had to do to be respectful of the culture and get into the mosque.’ I didn’t really think much of it until one of the guys on the trip started talking about how interesting it was to watch every female walk into a room looking like we always do and walk out completely covered. It was then that I truly started to think about the cultural differences and how I am being affected by them.
I had never been in a mosque before and King Abdullah’s was absolutely breathtaking. The entire floor is covered in a soft rug on which people sit for long periods five times a day to pray. There are multiple copies of the Quran at the front and the ceiling is a giant blue dome. I found it particularly funny that the guest entrance requires you to walk through the gift shop. It kind of reminded me of how airports make you walk through the Duty Free shops to get to your terminal. Maybe the Middle East isn’t as different as some Westerns like to think it is.
Additionally, a few days ago, we were invited to Sheikh Khaled’s home for dinner after exploring Umm Al-Jamal. I greatly enjoyed this experience and was honored to have been invited into the Sheikh’s home and learn from him about the tribal and political structure of Jordan.
Although we haven’t been to many touristy spots yet, my favorite trip thus far was our day at Mt. Nebo and the Dead Sea. The Dead Sea is a natural phenomenon that most people will never see and I am so lucky to have had such an experience. We arrived around mid-afternoon and stayed until after sunset. After being in Amman and at various holy sites where I have to be constantly covered and dressed conservatively, it was nice to finally be able to relax for a bit and just enjoy the desert sun.
