Hammam Baths, Gender, and Sexuality
Hammam Baths, Gender, and Sexuality
A hammam is a bathhouse in which women can bathe, gather, and socialize in the absence of men. The bathing ritual of the hammam consists of two elements. The first element is the hammam kit which consists of a traditional black soap called "sabon beldi," mineral clay shampoo melted in water called "rhasoul," a hand mitt called "kees," and a small pumice rock to scrub off dead skin. The second element has to do with the social etiquette and ritual of the hammam. The bather must first wash the bathing area where she wishes to sit. Then she applies the sabon beldi to the whole body, letting it sit for a while and eventually scrubbing it off with the kees. Once done bathing, the women douse themselves with water from the water bucket and return to the changing room. The hammam is not simply a bathhouse, but a mecca for the spread of information and of socialization amongst women. Often these bathhouses are where women bond and cultivate new friendships. For example, it is common to see women scrubbing each other's backs and offering to do so without being asked, often this is an invitation for conversation. It is common for mothers to search for a bride for their sons in Hammams. Hammams also play a role in wedding preparations for the bride.
After hearing about and reading about the hammam, I began to understand how this is a potent symbol of gender relations in Moroccan and Islamic cultures alike. To me, the hammam is a wonderful explanation of the in-group out-of-group sentiments that derive from stark gender roles. I have noticed and heard about a shared sisterhood amongst women in Morocco, a sisterhood that I believe would be observed within a hammam. I believe this sisterhood is an in-group mentality that exists as a product of these very gender roles. Because of the physical and mental separation that exists between the sexes within Islamic and Moroccan culture, I believe this sisterhood is strengthened to an extent that it is stronger than it is in countries that have looser gender roles.
Informational Links
Moroccan Women’s ‘Other’ Life Inside the Hammam
Sophia,
ReplyDeleteI love your description of the hammam and the seemingly sacred space that it creates. I agree the hammam is truly an in-group experience that even few male children ever experience. In a way, this reminds me of a ladies group at church or a sorority. There is a distinct membership of sorts into these groups which makes them special. I have wondered what it would feel like to be a part of the regal historical society, Daughters of the American Revolution. I feel a little disconnected from other women on this scale, as well. I am not sure if it’s because of the way our communities live (more dispersed) or if it is strictly a societal thing with more equality among genders? I will say, however, I get very frustrated when women do not support and encourage each other. “Empowered women empower women.” Perhaps in our thirst for equality, some of our American women have forgotten to reach back and grab the hand of the woman behind them - or as you put it, scrub each other’s back without being asked. Great blog post!