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Majlis

Majlis

[Bowl with a majlis scene by a pond, signed by Abu Zayd al-Kashani in 1187, Seljuk Empire, Iran. [1]](#cite_note-1)

"Majlis" [a] – an Arabic term that, if you're paying attention, signifies a 'sitting room' – is a concept far more expansive than its literal translation implies. This single word encompasses a remarkable array of special gatherings, bringing together individuals or groups united by common interests, whether administrative, social, or deeply religious. These assemblies are a cornerstone of societies across nations with linguistic or cultural ties to the broader Muslim world, reflecting a shared heritage and a distinct approach to community engagement. The adaptability of the term is such that "Majlis" can also, rather importantly, denote a legislature, serving as the official designation for various legislative councils or parliamentary assemblies in several contemporary states. [2[ [3[ [4] It's a word that bridges the gap between intimate social spaces and the highest echelons of national governance, proving that sometimes, the simple act of 'sitting together' can hold profound implications.

Etymology

The semantic origins of "Majlis" are, unsurprisingly, rooted in the Arabic language itself, where it functions as the direct word for a sitting room. [5] Its Semitic root is derived from the verb جَلَس (jalas), meaning 'to sit'. This linguistic connection isn't merely academic; it highlights a fundamental human need for congregation, for coming together to deliberate or simply to exist in shared space. One might draw a parallel to the British English terms 'sitting room' or even the more formal 'seat of government', underscoring how deeply the concept of physical seating is intertwined with both informal social interaction and formal authority. [6]

For those who might encounter this term beyond its native script, it is also occasionally romanized using variants such as "Mejlis" or "Majles." [citation needed](/Wikipedia:Citation_needed) A minor detail, perhaps, but one that speaks to the myriad ways language attempts to conform to new alphabets, sometimes with varying degrees of success or consistency.

History

The concept of a majlis is not a recent innovation; its historical roots run deep into the fabric of pre-Islamic Arabia. In those ancient times, a majlis served as a pivotal tribal council, a democratic forum where the adult male members of a tribe would gather to participate in the critical process of making decisions that affected their collective interests. [7] This essential council was invariably presided over by the chief, or Sheikh, whose authority guided the deliberations. [8] It was a place where consensus was forged, disputes were mediated, and the future of the community was charted, all through the collective wisdom (or lack thereof, depending on the day) of those present.

Following the advent of Islam and during the formative period of the Rashidun Caliphate, this foundational concept evolved into the more formalized institution known as the Majlis al-Shura. This consultative assembly was established with a monumental responsibility: the election of a new caliph, the spiritual and political leader of the nascent Muslim community. The weight of this task necessitated rigorous criteria for its members. The renowned Islamic scholar Al-Mawardi, in his insightful writings, outlined three indispensable conditions for those who would serve on the majlis. Firstly, they had to be demonstrably just, possessing an unwavering moral compass. Secondly, they required sufficient knowledge and discernment to effectively distinguish between a caliph who would lead wisely and one who would falter. And finally, they were expected to possess an abundance of wisdom and sound judgment, crucial qualities for selecting the individual best suited to guide the vast and growing Islamic realm. These conditions underscore the profound importance placed on the integrity and capability of those entrusted with such significant political and spiritual decisions.

Residential

Beyond its historical and legislative significance, the term "Majlis" also resonates deeply within the domestic sphere, commonly referring to a dedicated, private space within a home specifically designed for receiving and entertaining guests. [4] This is not merely a spare room; it's a cultural institution, a testament to the profound importance of hospitality in many societies. Often, these rooms are furnished with an array of plush cushions, strategically arranged around the perimeter of the walls, inviting visitors to recline in comfort. These cushions might be placed directly upon the floor, in a traditional manner, or elevated upon a low, raised shelf, offering a slightly more formal seating arrangement. The practice of hospitality, deeply ingrained and revered, means that families frequently invest considerable pride and effort into ensuring their guests are not just accommodated, but truly comfortable and honored during their visit. It’s a subtle art, making people feel welcome, and the majlis is its primary canvas.

Within countless Arab homes, the majlis serves as the principal meeting room or the front parlor, a designated zone for engaging with visitors and upholding social courtesies. In the particularly conservative context of Saudi Arabia, the intricate and often elaborate decoration of the majlis within a household frequently falls under the purview and creative responsibility of the women of the house. They might meticulously adorn the area themselves, pouring their artistic sensibilities into every detail, or they might engage in a form of traditional barter with other skilled women, exchanging services to achieve the desired aesthetic. This isn't just interior design; it's a reflection of cultural identity and communal support. Furthermore, in the distinct Asir Province of Saudi Arabia and extending into the neighboring Saada Governorate of Yemen, a captivating and vibrant style of painting known as al-Qatt Al-Asiri is employed to decorate these majlis spaces. This distinctive art form is characterized by its bold geometric designs and a vivid palette of bright colors, transforming the room into a striking visual narrative that speaks of regional heritage and artistic expression.

The term "majlis" isn't strictly confined to private residences; it occasionally extends to public waiting areas, recognizing these spaces as informal gathering points where people naturally meet and engage. A particularly illustrative example of this cultural integration can be observed in the provincial airport of Abha. This facility has undergone a deliberate redesign to meticulously reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region, consciously incorporating the traditional al-qatt al-Asiri style into its interior design. As an airport official, Abdul Aziz Abu Harba, proudly stated, "Abha is the first city in the Kingdom to have its airport decorated in a local-heritage style." He elaborated on the thoughtful execution, noting that "The seating arrangement at the airport lounge has been in the form of a traditional majlis and the walls are painted in various colors reflecting the natural beauty of Asir." This integration transforms what might otherwise be a sterile waiting area into a welcoming, culturally resonant space, offering travelers a tangible connection to the local identity even before they leave or arrive.

Delving further into the architectural nuances, particularly in the Najd region of Saudi Arabia, the majlis and its surrounding spaces are often distinguished by their unique wall coverings. These artistic embellishments frequently incorporate intricate star shapes and other elaborate geometric designs, which are not merely painted on but meticulously carved directly into the wall covering itself, creating a textured and dynamic surface. Beyond these interior details, the finest examples of Najdi architecture consistently feature prominent courtyards and impressive upper pillared porticoes as essential design elements. These are further complemented by exquisitely incised plasterwork, locally known as jis, and vibrantly painted window shutters that collectively contribute to the distinctive aesthetic of the reception rooms. The quality of this plasterwork, often described as light, delicate, and airy, can sometimes be appreciated even in the evocative ruins of demolished buildings, where fragments hint at their former splendor. This jis work is typically concentrated around the majlis itself, near the traditional coffee hearth, and along the upper sections of the walls where guests would recline on rugs against comfortable cushions. The explorer Doughty, observing these intricate patterns, once pondered whether this "parquetting of jis," this "gypsum fretwork... all adorning and unenclosed," might have originated from distant India. However, a closer examination reveals that Najdi fretwork possesses a distinct character, differing significantly from the styles observed in the Eastern Province and Oman, which indeed exhibit clearer links to Indian traditions. Instead, the motifs and patterns prevalent in Najdi architecture bear a striking resemblance to those found in ancient Mesopotamia. The recurring elements—the rosette, the star, the triangle, and the distinctive stepped pinnacle pattern of dadoes—are all ancient designs that were widespread across the entire Middle East in antiquity. The Al-Qassim Region is often considered the heartland of this particular art form, where it is traditionally executed in hard white plaster, though often it's seen begrimed by the smoke emanating from the omnipresent coffee hearth. In Riyadh, while less common, examples of these intricate designs can still be found worked into unadorned clay, showcasing the versatility and enduring appeal of this traditional artistry.

Legislatures

The term "Majlis," or its linguistic variants, extends its influence significantly into the realm of national governance, serving as the official name for legislative bodies across a diverse array of countries. It's a testament to the enduring concept of an assembly, a gathering for collective decision-making, transcending mere cultural practice to become a pillar of statecraft.

  • Azerbaijan: Here, the national legislative body, responsible for the country's laws and governance, is formally recognized as the National Assembly, but it is more commonly and constitutionally known as the Milli Məclis, a direct reflection of the term.
  • Circassian Majlis: This historical entity represents a significant moment in the narrative of the coastal Adyghe tribes. It symbolized and actively fostered unity among these distinct communities within the broader region of Circassia, acting as a crucial forum for collective identity and action.
  • Crimea (Ukraine-aligned): For the Crimean Tatar People, their representative body, functioning as a de facto parliament for the indigenous population, is known as the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar People. This body holds significant cultural and political weight for the community, particularly in its Ukraine-aligned context.
  • Cyprus: Within the Republic of Cyprus, the House of Representatives, the primary legislative chamber, is officially referred to as Temsilciler Meclisi, another clear adoption of the term.
  • Northern Cyprus: Similarly, in Northern Cyprus, the legislative body responsible for lawmaking is known as the Cumhuriyet Meclisi, which translates to the Assembly of the Republic, demonstrating the term's widespread application across various political entities in the region.
  • Indonesia: In this sprawling archipelago, the paramount legislative and constitutional body, the People's Consultative Assembly, is known in the national Indonesian language as Majelis Permusyawaratan Rakyat (MPR). This illustrates how the concept has been integrated and adapted into the political lexicon of Southeast Asia.
  • Iran: The Islamic Republic of Iran's legislative branch, responsible for enacting laws and overseeing government, is officially titled the Islamic Consultative Assembly, but it is universally referred to by its Persianized form, Majles-e Showrā-ye Eslāmī.
  • Iraq: The sovereign legislative body of Iraq, its Parliament, bears the Arabic designation "Majlis an-Nuwwāb," meaning the Council of Representatives, a direct nomenclature reflecting the traditional term.
  • Jordan: The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan’s bicameral legislature, the Parliament of Jordan, is comprehensively known in Arabic as Majlis Al-Umma, or the National Assembly. Its lower house, specifically, the House of Representatives, is also referred to as Majlis Al-Nuwaab, or the Council of Deputies.
  • Kazakhstan: In Central Asia, the lower house of the Parliament of Kazakhstan is known simply as the Majilis, demonstrating the term's reach across diverse linguistic and cultural landscapes.
  • Kuwait: The National Assembly of Kuwait, the unicameral parliament, is known in Arabic as Majlis-al-Umma, or the National Council, a direct continuation of the term's use in Gulf states.
  • Malaysia: The utility of the term "Majlis" in Malaysia is remarkably broad, reflecting its status as a dominant Muslim, multiracial nation where the Malay language holds significant sway. Malaysians frequently employ the word Majlis in the national Malay language to refer to various local authorities, such as the town council (Majlis Perbandaran) or the city council (Majlis Bandar Raya), indicating a localized administrative assembly. Beyond local governance, the word Majlis also designates numerous government agencies. Examples include the People's Trust Council (Majlis Amanah Rakyat), which serves the interests of the indigenous and Bumiputera Malays; the National Security Council (Majlis Keselamatan Negara), which coordinates national security policies; and the Malaysian Examination Council (Majlis Peperiksaan Malaysia), a crucial body for both local and international students. For the Muslim population within the country, the word Majlis often holds specific connotations related to Islamic affairs and the traditional customs of the Malays (Majlis Hal Ehwal Agama Islam dan Adat Istiadat). Furthermore, it is used in the context of the nine Kings of Malaysia, who form the esteemed Majlis Raja-Raja, or the Conference of Rulers, a unique constitutional body. This multifaceted application in Malaysia truly highlights the adaptability and cultural depth embedded within the single term "Majlis."
  • Maldives: The unicameral national legislature of the Maldives, responsible for legislative duties, is known as the People's Majlis, reinforcing the term's parliamentary usage in island nations.
  • Oman: The Sultanate of Oman's bicameral parliament is collectively known as the Majlis of Oman, comprising both a State Council and a Consultative Assembly.
  • Pakistan: The Parliament of Pakistan, the supreme legislative body, is officially known as the Majlis-e-Shoora, which translates to the Consultative Assembly, a name that echoes its historical consultative function.
  • Saudi Arabia: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's advisory legislative body, which offers counsel to the monarch, is known as the Majlis of Saudi Arabia, or the Consultative Assembly.
  • Tajikistan: In Tajikistan, the bicameral Supreme Assembly is known as the Majlisi Oli. Within this structure, the upper house, the National Assembly, is designated as the Majlis-i Milli, while the lower house, the Assembly of Representatives, is known as the Majlis-is Namoyandagon, showcasing a tiered application of the term.
  • Turkey: The fundamental legislative body of the Republic of Turkey, its unicameral parliament, is majestically known as the Grand National Assembly, or Türkiye Büyük Millet Meclisi, a name that carries significant historical weight and national pride.
  • Turkmenistan: The Assembly of Turkmenistan, the country's legislative body, is known as the Türkmenistanyň mejlisi, another instance of the term's use in Central Asian parliamentary structures.
  • UAE: In the United Arab Emirates, both the Federal Supreme Council, the highest constitutional authority, and the Federal National Council, the federal parliament, are referred to as "majlis" in Arabic, underscoring its dual application in both executive and legislative contexts.
  • Uzbekistan: The Republic of Uzbekistan's supreme legislative body is known as the Oliy Majlis, or the Supreme Assembly, further cementing the term's prevalence in the region.
  • Majlis Idara: Historically, this was the specific designation for the administrative council of a sanjak, a historical administrative division within the vast Ottoman Empire. This council bore the responsibility for the general administration of its respective sanjak, ensuring the smooth functioning of local governance under imperial oversight.
  • Majlis 'Umumi: Also a historical term from the Ottoman Empire era, the Majlis 'Umumi referred to a general council established in 1913 within the Sanjak of Jerusalem. This significant assembly, comprising representatives from various qadaas (sub-districts), convened its main meetings once a year in Jerusalem with the crucial mandate of deciding upon the annual budget for the entire sanjak.

Inscription on UNESCO

In a rare moment of international recognition for an intangible cultural practice, the majlis was officially inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on December 4, 2015. This significant achievement was the result of a collaborative effort, a joint file submitted by multiple nations, involving the active participation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the Sultanate of Oman, and Qatar. [11] The inscription is far more than a mere formality; it stands as a profound testament to the enduring value and multifaceted importance of the majlis, not only as a vital social and cultural function but also as a vibrant, living tradition that continues to shape communities. This international acknowledgment secures its preservation and ensures its continuity as the quintessential seat for family gatherings, broader social interactions, and critical political deliberations that have characterized its role throughout history. It's a recognition that some traditions are simply too fundamental to fade.

See also

Notes