The difference between Xinjiang people sitting on the floor and eating outside the circle

According to the inquiry website, the differences between Xinjiang people sitting on the floor and eating outside the circle are mainly as follows:

Inside the circle is the location of the host, and outside the circle is the location of the guest. Generally speaking, the host will sit in the center of the circle or near the fire pit in order to entertain guests and distribute food. Guests will sit on opposite sides of the circle to show respect and courtesy.

Inside the circle are the positions of elders and VIPs, and outside the circle are the positions of younger generations and ordinary guests. Generally speaking, elders and VIPs will be arranged in the best position in the circle in order to enjoy the best food and service. Junior and ordinary guests will be arranged in the second best position outside the circle to make way for elders and VIPs.

Inside is the position of men, and outside is the position of women and children. Generally speaking, men will sit in the main position in the circle in order to host dinner and talk. Women and children will sit in auxiliary positions outside the circle, take care of their families and prepare food.

Of course, these differences are not absolute and will change with different occasions and people. For example, in some formal or grand occasions, such as weddings, festivals, religious ceremonies and so on. The rules for sitting on the floor and eating on the floor will be stricter; In some casual or intimate occasions, such as family dinners, friends gatherings, picnics, etc. The rules of sitting on the floor and eating on the floor will be more flexible.

Sitting on the floor is a traditional eating habit of Xinjiang people, mainly because Xinjiang has a vast territory, dry climate and few aquatic plants. Herdsmen often have to migrate to graze, so it is not convenient to carry furniture such as tables and chairs. They can only spread blankets on the ground, make a circle with plates or naan, and then sit inside or outside the circle to enjoy food.