Summary of Lebanese Culture

Summarised from Cultural Atlas [URL:https://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au/lebanese-culture]

Overview

Lebanon is a small, diverse country known for its conservative culture infused with Arab customs, European influences, and a deep respect for Islamic and Christian traditions. Its society values collectivism, with a strong emphasis on family and group loyalty, often over individual interests. The Lebanese social hierarchy is largely influenced by wealth, class, and religious affiliations, with a notable respect for elders and a cultural emphasis on maintaining honor and dignity.

Greetings and Social Interaction

• Handshakes are common, sometimes with additional physical contact to show sincerity.
  
• Close friends may exchange kisses on the cheeks, and greetings often include inquiries about family and jokes.
  
• Terms of endearment like 'habibi' are frequently used among friends and family.
  
• It's essential to respect religious practices, particularly among Muslims, regarding physical contact.

Religion

• The population is mainly Muslim (61%) and Christian (33.7%), with a significant emphasis on religious identity in social, political, and legal spheres.
  
• Lebanon is known for its religious diversity, with 18 recognized religious sects, affecting everything from parliamentary representation to personal legal matters.

Family Values

• Family is the cornerstone of Lebanese society, with expectations of loyalty and support extending beyond immediate family members.
  
• Traditional gender roles are evolving, with increasing gender equality, though family honor remains a significant consideration.

Social Etiquette and Communication

• Lebanese culture values hospitality, generosity, and respect for elders.
  
• Social interactions are characterized by indirect communication, respect for social hierarchies, and a relaxed attitude towards punctuality.
  
• Gift-giving is common when visiting someone's home, and socializing often revolves around meals.

Business Culture

• Relationships are key in Lebanese business, with a focus on personal connections and trust over financial credentials.
  
• Business meetings may seem informal, with significant social conversation before business discussions.
  
• Decision-making is typically deferred to the most senior individual, with a preference for building long-term, reliable partnerships.

Lebanese in Australia

• Lebanese migration to Australia occurred in three main waves, with the community now well-established, especially in New South Wales.
  
• The Lebanese-Australian community is diverse, reflecting both Christian and Muslim backgrounds, and while maintaining cultural traditions, they have also adapted to Australian society.