Umm Karbah wa Lifah

Element Name

Umm Karbah wa Lifah

Other Names

Bu Karbah, Lifah, Umm Al Sa'af wa Al Lif

Practice Environment

All environments

Practice Location

All Emirates of the UAE

Scope of Practice

All segments of society

Heritage Domain/ Category

Folk Literature

Element Type/ Subcategory

Folk Tales (Khararif)

Current Status

Endangered heritage

Umm Karbah wa Lifah is a date palm that transforms in folk tradition into a mythical creature possessed by jinn and capable of harming humans. Its trunk is described as moving and swaying, while its crown takes the form of a monster with two eyes and two hands. It frightens anyone approaching it, particularly when the palm is abandoned or neglected. It is associated with rare but well-known incidents involving curiosity and recklessness and was believed often to harm farmers or passers-by. Protection was sought through spiritual safeguarding, Qur’an recitation and inherited supplications.

Criteria Applicable to Nominate Element

01

Presence in Collective Memory and Intergenerational Cohesion: A cultural element is considered deeply rooted when it is held in the collective memory of the community and forms part of their daily experiences, occasions, and social relationships. It also contributes to strengthening the bonds of interaction between different generations, as it is transmitted from elders to younger members, providing a space for celebration and communal participation, thereby creating a sense of belonging and continuity.