Amman, the capital city of Jordan, is known to be small and compact. You might be walking down the street and have someone yell your name or pat you on the back to say hello.
Grandparents and parents from different families all know each other in one way or another; they either grew up together, worked together, or are somehow related.
This specific fact makes it slightly awkward in certain situations, for example, going to a friend's house and having to meet their folks.
One question, however, seems to be the determining factor of whether or not you're good enough to hang out with their kids... "Meen abook/i?" (Who's your father?)
1. The one and only ultimate question
"Meen abook/i?" (Who’s your father?) is without a doubt the first mandatory question to be asked... and the one that matters most.
You can think of it as a determining factor of some kind.
2. All the men of the family will ask it
Whether it was the father or grandfather - whoever of these male figures are present - this question will surely be asked by them.
3. It’s painfully awkward and unavoidable
When family names are so common, it’s assumed we’re all related.
After that "Meen abook/i" is asked, they’ll probably know someone with that last name and ask you if you know them... but it’s a 50/50 chance, to be honest.
4. You will soon come to a realization: The world is too small
It’s asked so often, it’s become a habit, a social norm, and an expectation for all Jordanians. It's one unavoidable question.
You'll realize it is definitely a small world here!
5. You came to see your friend... hah, think again
As soon you step inside, before even hanging out with your friend, the father will sit you down to ask if you want anything to drink.
As if any beverage can help soothe the awkward silence that’s coming before he gears up and asks you the question.
6. You really don’t know why it happens... but it just does
The "meen abook/i?" situation doesn't need a reason to happen... it’s like an unexplainable routine that must take place in all Jordanian homes.
You can say it’s their special way of getting to know you by identifying your parents.
7. It might feel like we’re asking for the parents' approval
The pressure is real...
They don’t get that not everyone has their family tree memorized by heart and that our immediate family is sometimes all we know.
8. But when it’s finally over... you can breathe
When the interrogation is finally over, both parents smile at you and say, "it was nice meeting you, say hi to your parents for us", if they know them.
And if they don't, they’ll say, "it was nice meeting you. Ahla w sahla, you're welcome anytime."
But either way, they make you feel like part of the family almost immediately.