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Element Name
Umm Al Sibyan
Other Names
Al Makruhah the hated one, Illi Ma Tin'atra, Umm Maldam, Al Qarinah
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 Al Sibyan

Umm Al Sibyan is one of the most frightening female jinn in Emirati folk belief. She is described as an unseen being that stalks children and pregnant women, causing illness or preventing them from having children. She sometimes appears in the form of a hen followed by her chicks, entering homes with an overwhelming presence. Stories attribute strange illnesses to her, and she is said to cause children to become frail or pregnancies to miscarry. Despite the fear surrounding her, she represents deep human anxiety over children and descendants and embodies the idea of “evil threatening innocence.” Folk society used her story as a means of deterrence and moral guidance, warning women against envy and reminding people of spiritual protection and remembrance of God.

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.

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