Tahteeb

Tahtib “Stick Game”

Member Organization(s)

Introduction

Tahteeb was used as a form of martial arts in ancient Egypt. Its role has since changed to that of a festive game but some of the symbolism and values associated with the practice remain. The performance involves a brief, non-violent interchange between two adversaries, each wielding a long(1.3m) rattan stick while folk music plays in the background. The rules of the game are based on values such as mutual respect, friendship, courage, strength, chivalry, and pride.

History

Tahteeb is originally a stick martial art described since the fifth Egyptian dynasty Sahoureh king(25th B.C.). It progressively became a festive and participative game. Tahteeb is now a folk practice combining art and skill, a non-verbal form of communication accomplished by the use of a stick, enhanced by the music played by the folk musicians with derbouka(percussion), mizmar(oboe).

Transmission occurs within families, neighborhoods, and to anyone who wishes to learn. The game gives participants confidence from skills acquired and a sense of pride performing before their community. It also helps to strengthen family ties and foster good communal relations.

The Association of Upper Egypt for Education and Development (AUEED) promotes and educates tahteeb to youths in local communities with its teams consisted of trainers and trainees of all genders.

References

AUEED (2019). WoMAU membership application form.

“Tahteeb, stick game”. UNESCO ICH.

World Martial Arts Museum. Chungju, Korea.

“봉술, 타흐팁”. 유네스코와 유산.