A unique symbol of Musandam’s heritage

KHASAB: Residents in the Governorate of Musandam are keen to carry sticks, locally known as ‘Al Jeriz’, especially people of Al Shihi tribe, where they have a certain moral symbol associated with the heritage and history of the governorate.

Al Jeriz sticks are carried by the elderly as well as young people as part of the Omani traditional attire. Parents are keen to teach their children how to carry the stick as part of their personalities in attending social and national events, along with the Omani Khanjar ‘Dagger’, Shihi Knife, locally called ‘Baishak’’ and the belt, locally called ‘Mahzam’.

Men in the Governorate of Musandam carry Al Jeriz sticks in the performance of some Shihi popular folklore arts, locally known as ‘Nadba’ and other traditional Omani folklores. The uses of Al Jeriz sticks were many in the past, basically as a traditional weapon used by its carrier to defend himself, against any attack, often by wild animals on the road while travelling in mountains and valleys. They were also used as sticks for leaning on them while walking and climbing mountains and a cutting tool. Al Jeriz sticks are made in a number of areas in the Governorate of Musandam, most of which are in the villages. Sticks are made at homes with simple hand tools and the most prominent manufacturing places in the Niyabat of Lima in the Wilayat of Khasab.

“I have always loved the profession of making sticks,” Abdullah bin Sulaiman Al Shihi, a resident of the Niyabat of Lima, said.

“Since childhood I have always loved the profession of making sticks. I have not left it and I practice with all skill and creativity. I teach the profession to my children and grandchildren and urge them to master it.”

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