Riyadh, December 17, 2024 — Camels have long been a symbol of cultural and economic significance in the Arabian Peninsula, a connection celebrated at the ninth King Abdulaziz Camel Festival. This festival, a tribute to the deep-rooted relationship between camels and Arab communities, sheds light on the multifaceted role these animals play in the region’s heritage. Camels have historically been valued not only as a source of transportation and milk but also as symbols of resilience and adaptability, crucial to the survival of Bedouins and other desert communities. The festival highlights these themes, showcasing the enduring bond between humans and camels that has been passed down through generations.
The Saudi Press Agency’s report further delves into the intricate naming system used to classify camels at various stages of their lives. The naming conventions reflect the vital role camels play in daily life and the nuanced understanding the Arabian Peninsula’s people have developed over centuries. At birth, a camel is known as "Hawar," a term that captures the intense bond between the newborn camel and its attentive mother, who will not move unless accompanied by her calf. This phase lasts until the camel is around six months old, during which it is able to stand within hours of birth and slowly begins to walk alongside its mother.
Between six months and a year, the camel is called "Makhlool." From one to two years, it becomes "Mufroud," a stage when it begins to show independence in grazing and drinking. As the camel matures, from two to three years old, it is referred to as "Luqai," symbolizing the connection between siblings from different births. From three to four years, it is named "Haq," marking its transition into carrying loads. The camel is then called "Jathaa" between its fourth and fifth years, and by the age of five to six, it is known as "Thinee," reflecting the replacement of its first set of incisors.
From six to seven years old, the camel is called "Rabaa," and from seven to eight years, it becomes "Sudsis." This naming system not only underscores the camel’s journey through life but also reflects its growing importance in the nomadic lifestyle of the region. Camels, on average, live between 25 to 30 years, with their longevity making them invaluable assets to their owners.
Beyond age, camels are also named based on their reproductive status. "Hail" refers to a camel that has not yet mated, while "Haqah" denotes a pregnant camel, and "Khilfah" is used for those that have given birth. "Ma'ashar" describes a camel in the early stages of pregnancy. In addition to these age and reproductive-based names, camels are also categorized by the size of the herd they belong to. "Zhoud" includes groups of 3 to 10 camels, "Sarmah" consists of 20 to 30 camels, and "Hijmah" refers to groups of 50 to 90 camels. Larger herds are categorized as "Hanidah" (100 camels), "Arj" (500 to 1,000 camels), and "Jarjour" for herds exceeding 1,000 camels.
These naming conventions not only serve a practical purpose but also embody the cultural richness and deep respect Arabs have for these creatures. The festival, through its tribute to camels and their pivotal role in Arab society, underscores the importance of preserving this unique aspect of the region’s heritage, ensuring it remains a living tradition for future generations.
