Al-Khanjar is part of the traditional cloth worn by men in Oman at national and religious events and on special occasions such as weddings. It is a traditional dagger that originated in Oman but has spread to other Middle Eastern, Asian, and Balkan countries. A short curved sword shaped like the letter "J" and resembling a hook. Khanjars serve as a status symbol and a symbol of male power, authority, and manhood. They are considered universal signs of masculinity by John M. Willis in The Arab Studies Journal. Oman's national emblem features the khanjar, the royal symbol of the Sultanate. Al Said dynasty's royal crest bears it, and it became the country's national emblem in the 18th century. In addition to appearing on the Omani rial - the country's currency - and on postage stamps issued by the Sultanate, it also features on the rial note. Furthermore, khanjar statues are located on government buildings as well as at roundabouts.
In order to manufacture it, Omani knowledge and skills have to be passed down from generation to generation. In addition to the belt, handle, blade, sheath, and cover, the Omani khanjar is constructed from wood, leather, cloth, and silver. It is believed that the materials, engraved with distinct designs, reflect the land's connection. Formal workshops and training also facilitate the transmission of this knowledge. As an expression of cultural connection between nations, Omanis give the khanjar to official guests as an appreciated gift. It has also been described and praised in many Omani poems, and Omani artists and photographers have documented the object and its craft.
Today, the khanjar is used exclusively for ceremonial and practical purposes, despite its origin as an attack and defense weapon. As for the latter, it's commonly used as a tool in the desert for hunting and skinning animals, as well as the task of slicing ropes. Now, pulling one's khanjar from its scabbard without blooding it is considered a "social taboo" in Oman, since the only time men would do this would be to seek revenge or defend themselves. Yemen, however, is the place where most Northern men wear the khanjar every day. It is regarded as a symbol in Oman, and is also worn by men in the United Arab Emirates, as part of their "traditional dress". As well as in Doha, Qatar, it is also available and sold in other states in Eastern Arabia. Tourists value the khanjar as a keepsake and it has become the Sultanate's best-selling souvenir.
References
(https://ich.unesco.org/en/RL/al-khanjar-craft-skills-and-social-practices-01844) (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khanjar)
|Subject=Craftsmanship and Practices |Country=Oman |SDG=(08) Decent Work and Economic Growth, (11) Sustainable Cities and Communities }}