Kassem Hojeij and the Proverb: “Like Gypsies, They Only Come Out in the Heat”
“The Gypsies in Jabal Amel’s Folklore”
The proverb “Like gypsies, they only come out in the heat” describes disorganized individuals or those with malicious intentions who exploit others’ inattentiveness.
“The Origin and Context of the Proverb”
When asked about this proverb, historian Kassem Hojeij explained:
“Gypsies, or nour, were an integral part of the social fabric in Jabal Amel. They roamed villages, earning their livelihood through crafts such as knife-making, repairing farming tools, gilding teeth, and performing music and dance.
They often traveled during the intense heat for two reasons. First, their frail animals necessitated quick travel despite the discomfort.
Second, gypsies were often viewed unfavorably, associated with bad omens in popular culture. They avoided crowded areas to escape insults or ridicule.”
“Gypsies and Empty Roads”
Hojeij added:
“Gypsies took advantage of deserted roads during the heat to collect forgotten or discarded items.
Their remarkable resourcefulness allowed them to repurpose these items into useful objects for their tents or to repair and sell them.”
“Modern Perceptions of Gypsies”
Hojeij noted a shift in societal attitudes:
“Today, the stigma surrounding gypsies has diminished, but a social distance remains. Gypsies and locals generally maintain their separate ways of life without much interaction.”
