What do a talking caterpillar, ancient Turkish kings, and over 100 million people around the world have in common? They all indulge in hookah smoking. So what exactly is a hookah? A hookah, also referred to as a water pipe or narghela, serves the purpose of smoking flavored and completely natural tobacco through its water pipe. In contrast to cigarettes or cigars, it lacks harmful toxins and chemicals. Personally speaking, I possess three hookahs and enjoy smoking them on a daily basis. It provides me with immense relaxation after returning home from school or work.
The following discussion will delve into the history, components, and culture surrounding the hookah. Originating in India during the 15th century, it was crafted using a bamboo stem and coconut shell. Initially employed for smoking tobacco and opium, today I often indulge in this activity with close friends. Our preferred flavors include apple, strawberry, grape, and cantaloupe. Smoking hookah serves as an excellent means of promoting socialization and bonding.
Around 500 years ago, the hookah underwent a redesign when it arrived in Turkey. The current design we still use today originated in Turkey. During that time, owning a hookah was a status symbol, indicating involvement in politics or royalty. It was commonly smoked after royal dinners and at diplomatic meetings, alongside coffee and sweets. Despite its simplicity, the hookah consists of four main components: the head, body, bowl, and hose. The head, situated at the top of the hookah, is where the flavored tobacco is placed.
The tobacco brand that is widely known is called “Star buzz”. Occasionally, individuals may hollow out a fruit to use as the tobacco head, which adds extra flavor. The bowl, typically adorned with intricate designs, serves as a glass base to hold the water. This water acts as a purifier. To create a cooler and more refreshing experience, many individuals opt to add ice cubes to the water. The stem or body of the hookah connects the head and the bowl, allowing the tobacco smoke to travel to the water for purification. The broader the body, the denser the smoke becomes.
The hose is the final component used to inhale smoke from a hookah. In Middle Eastern culture and traditions, smoking hookah is popular. While some families use hookah as a decoration, most use it during gatherings. Smoking hookah has become a beloved pastime in the Middle East and is now spreading worldwide. It has sparked engaging discussions on topics like politics, religion, and daily events. During social gatherings, the hookah is placed in the center of a circle where the hose is passed around.
The participants in the circle pass the hose to the next person after taking a few puffs, but it’s important to pass it while folded back on itself to avoid disrespecting Middle Eastern culture by pointing the mouthpiece at the recipient. In this circle, individuals can share words and exchange ideas in a relaxed and playful atmosphere. Recently, I came across a quote that perfectly captures the essence of the hookah experience: “Cigarettes are for nervous people, competitive people, people on the run […When you smoke a narghile, you have time to think. It teaches you patience and tolerance and gives you an appreciation for good company. Narghile smokers have a much more balanced approach to life than cigarette smokers” (Ismet Ertep, 71 years Turkey). This quote resonated with me because smoking hookah induces relaxation, and I encourage everyone, even non-smokers, to give it a try. With thousands of flavors available, there is definitely something that will satisfy your taste buds.
Hookah is a pleasurable way to socialize with loved ones. For further information on this topic, you can refer to “Turkey: True Stories” by James Villers (published in 2002) and “Hookah History” from 2006. Additionally, the website “American Bedu” offered insights into the differences in hookah culture between Saudi Arabia and America in May 2009.
