Definition of the word keffiyeh

The keffiyeh, a traditional Arab headscarf made of cotton or wool, has a rich cultural history that dates back centuries. Its origins can be traced to the Middle East, where it was first worn by Bedouin tribes as a practical way to protect themselves from the sun and sand during long stretches of travel. The word "keffiyeh" itself has an intriguing etymology. According to some sources, it derives from the Arabic "kufr" meaning "to cover," and the Turkish "şāk" or "şeyake" used to describe a headdress worn by Turkish soldiers in the Ottoman Empire. Others suggest that the term "kuḥlān" or "kuhlānīyah," meaning "cloth" or "handkerchief," might be a more accurate derivation. The keffiyeh's cultural and political significance has evolved over time. In the late 19th century, Palestinian Arabs began to adopt it as a symbol of resistance against British colonialism during the Mandate era. Later, during the 1960s and 1970s, the keffiyeh became a powerful symbol of Palestinian identity and the struggle for national liberation amid the Arab-Israeli conflict. The keffiyeh's design and interpretation have also evolved. Traditional keffiyehs feature a distinctive pattern of white and red checkered squares, known as "ghutrah," loosely wrapped around the head and fastened with an "agal," a thick black cord. Today, the keffiyeh can be seen in many different colors, patterns, and designs, reflecting changing cultural and political contexts. In sum, the keffiyeh is a fascinating and complex symbol, reflecting both practical function and cultural and political significance, whose origins and meanings continue to evolve over time.