The Egyptian People 69example, a high ministerial or elected official might attend
a formal dinner or reception. While among members of
the same social class (the upper class), this relatively higher
ranking person would still receive deference and respect
from members at the gathering to acknowledge his or her
distinct position.
A Different Perception
Sometimes it is diffi cult for foreigners to ascertain just who represents
the higher rank except by quietly observing group actions. You can
count on the fact that relative rank or status is well known among
the Egyptians. In fact, depending on the circumstances, you may
fi nd you are the object of deference from people at a gathering
because of your foreign status. This may simply refl ect Egyptians’
value for hospitality and honesty or it may be a sign of recognition
of your perceived importance. For example, since only high-ranking
or wealthy Egyptians typically travel abroad, your very presence
in Egypt signifi es to many Egyptians that you must also be rather
high-ranking and wealthy. Deference to your perceived position then
follows logically in their world view.Family
Life in Egypt revolves around the family, and family
concerns often assume greater significance than business
relationships. It would not be uncommon for someone to
cancel a business meeting because some pressing family
matter took greater precedence.
All Egyptians seem to love children. One of the first things
I noticed in Egypt was that children were everywhere. There
seem to be few public places where you won’t find children.
When women shop or go visiting, the custom is to bring all
the children regardless of their ages. Traditionally, the mother
assumes major responsibility for assuring that children are
raised properly. Because of this, many people think fathers
are not close to their children. My observation has been that
fathers often fondly hold small children and are frequently
seen with them in public. As children age, fathers apparently
bond more closely with their sons with regard to career and
responsibility roles, but maintain a deep affection for all their
children. Daughters become more closely aligned with their