Gifts for the Arabic Major
Don't think that finding the right gift for an Arabic major is out of your reach. Collegians studying Arabic are, of course, interested in the Arabic language, so gift-giving based on Arabic culture is the path to take. Whether you can travel to a Middle Eastern shop or you decide to order goods via the Web, plenty of exciting gift options relate to Arabic art, music, literature and food.
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Arabic Music
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Middle Eastern instruments are common in Arabic music. Arabic music CDs are available from many record labels and span a variety of styles. Whether the Arabic major in your life would prefer a traditional sound or a contemporary sound, an Arabic CD makes an appropriate gift. The collection "Arabic Groove" by Putumayo has modern Arabic music, including hip-hop, funk and electronic sounds. Artists playing belly dance music, such as those featured on "Bellydance Superstars," create a true fusion of traditional rhythms and modern production. "Classical Arabic Music," a Smithsonian Folkways release featuring Dr. Afif Alvarez Bulos and his ensemble, give a taste of classic music of the Arab world.
Arabic Art
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From prints to pendants, Arabic art comes in many forms. Give the gift of Arabic art. You can find many prints with Arabic themes and influences by contemporary and ancient artists. Because of the Islamic ban on depicting human forms, much Arabic art involves pattern design and calligraphy. Don't be discouraged by its dissimilarity to Western art, though: An Arabic major will treasure art that comes from the heart of Arabic culture. Arabic pottery, jewelry and sculpture are other engaging gifts for the Arabic major.
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Arabic Books
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Giving a book related to Islamic culture is a safe bet. From large-format Arabic coffee table art books to novels about the Arabic world to poetry written in Arabic, many books are available. You could open up your Arabic major to some great Arab thinkers through books. The modern writer Edward Said and the 19th century Kahlil Gibran are Arabic writers with a message for the world. Don't let your Arabic major stop learning at the boundaries of language lessons. Fine literature is an important component of any education.
Arabic Foods
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Ingredients for many Arabic foods are easy to find at regular grocery stores. Take an Arabic major out to a fancy Middle Eastern restaurant or cook him a Middle Eastern meal at home. Alternatively, give him a gift basket containing all the ingredients needed for a genuine Arabic-style meal, along with a recipe card. This could include imported spices and canned goods, fresh parsley and mint, and small sacks of lentils, bulgur and couscous. A coffee or tea set is also an appropriate gift. Include cups, spiced coffee or traditional tea, and the brew pot, and you're sure to be invited over for a hot cup.
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References
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