being hospitable essay

11 Reasons Why Filipino Hospitality Is The Best In The World

• , May 23, 2024

What do you get when you mix a tropical paradise with friendly and welcoming people? You get the Philippines — where hospitality is more than just a social norm, it’s a way of life.

Filipinos take pride in their reputation for being one of the most hospitable people in the world.

If you’ve ever visited the Philippines, you know firsthand how warm and welcoming the Filipino people can be. But what exactly is Filipino hospitality, and why is this important? Let’s get into the details.

Table of Contents

What is filipino hospitality.

Filipino hospitality, or “magiliw na pagtanggap,” is a cultural practice passed down from generation to generation. 

Basically, it refers to the warm and welcoming nature of the Filipino people towards their guests. It is deeply ingrained in the Philippines’ culture to treat visitors with utmost respect and generosity.

It’s also a way of life that reflects the warmth and kindness of the Pinoys.

So, whether you’re a local or a foreigner, you’re sure to experience the graciousness of Filipinos in their homes, restaurants, and other public places.

The Importance Of Hospitality In Filipino Culture And Society

The importance of Filipino hospitality in the country’s culture and society cannot be overstated. It reflects the values Filipinos hold dear, such as respect, generosity, and empathy. 

In Tagalog, they say “Pagpapahalaga,” which means valuing or treasuring something. Filipino hospitality is cherished for many reasons, these include: 

• Promotes social connection : Filipino hospitality promotes social harmony by encouraging cooperation, respect, and empathy among individuals and groups.
• Boosts tourism industry : Filipinos’ warm and welcoming nature has helped make the Philippines a top tourist destination in Asia. The hospitality industry increases the country’s economy and provides jobs for many Filipinos.
• Fosters cultural pride : It’s a source of cultural pride for many Filipinos, reflecting their values and way of life. It helps to preserve and promote Filipino culture both locally and in other countries.
• Enhances personal and professional relationships : Practicing hospitality can lead to stronger personal and professional relationships, as it involves treating others with kindness, respect, and generosity.
• Creates a sense of belonging : Filipino hospitality establishes a sense of belonging and makes people feel welcomed and appreciated. It helps to create a positive and inclusive environment for everyone.

11 Ways Filipinos Show Their Hospitality

When it comes to hospitality, Filipinos are the champions! But how do Filipinos show their hospitality to others, especially to non-Filipinos? Well, here are some of them:

1. Offering Food And Drinks To Guests

One of the most common ways Filipinos show their hospitality is by offering food and popular Filipino drinks to their guests. “Kain na” (Let’s eat) is a common phrase you’ll hear as soon as you enter a Filipino home. 

From the moment you arrive, you’ll be treated like royalty and offered various dishes and snacks. You can expect to try Filipino favorites like lumpia (spring rolls), adobo (marinated meat), and halo-halo (a sweet dessert).

Make sure you come with an empty stomach because Filipinos love to feed their guests until they’re full and satisfied!

2. Offering A Comfortable Place To Stay For Visitors

Another way for Filipinos to show their hospitable nature is by offering their guests a comfortable place to stay. Whether it’s for a night or a month, they will ensure you have everything you need to feel at home. 

You’ll be welcomed with open arms and a cheerful “Dito ka na muna” (Stay here for a while). 

The hospitality extends beyond just a comfortable bed and a clean room; you’ll be given fresh towels, toiletries, and even a home-cooked breakfast in the morning. 

If you’re lucky, you may even stay in a traditional bahay kubo (nipa hut) or a beachfront cottage that will take your breath away.

3. Welcoming Guests With A Warm Smile And Greeting

Filipinos are known for their friendly personalities. You can expect a warm welcome and a heartfelt “Kumusta po kayo?” (How are you?) as soon as you arrive at their home. 

This is commonly followed by “Tuloy po kayo” (Please, come inside), making visitors feel even more welcomed.

This is a sign of their hospitality and welcoming nature. They want you to feel comfortable and at home and will do everything they can to ensure that happens.

4. Providing Assistance And Guidance To Visitors

Navigating a new place can be daunting for many foreigners, but Filipinos are more than happy to assist and guide visitors unfamiliar with the area.

“Saan ka pupunta?” (Where are you going?) is a common question you’ll hear, and it’s not just small talk. They genuinely want to help and ensure you’re on the right path. 

They’ll give you direction tips in Tagalog on where to go, what to see, and even how to speak Tagalog. They’ll even take you on a tour if you need an extra hand. They aim to ensure you enjoy your stay and get the most out of your visit.

5. Offering To Help With Anything That The Guest May Need

Filipinos take hospitality to the next level by offering to help with anything the guest needs. 

“Kailangan mo ba ng tulong?” (Do you need help?) is a phrase you’ll hear often. 

Whether carrying your bags, finding you a taxi, or helping you translate a menu, Filipinos are always ready to lend a hand.

6. Treating Guests Like Family

You’ll be welcomed with open arms and embraced as if you’re one of them. They’ll ensure you’re well taken care of and go out of their way to guarantee a memorable stay. 

Whether celebrating a special occasion, taking you to their favorite local spots, or introducing you to their Filipino families and friends, Filipinos treat you like family and make you feel at home.

In fact, you’ll often hear them say, “Parang kapamilya ka na din namin” (You’re like family to us) when you become too close to them.

7. Sharing Stories With Guests

Filipinos show their hospitality by sharing stories and experiences with guests. 

From sharing childhood memories, local folklore , or current events, Filipinos love to connect with their guests through storytelling. 

Did you know that “kwentuhan” (storytelling) is a part of Filipino culture? By sharing stories, guests can learn more about the host’s experiences and understand Filipino culture more deeply.

8. Filipino Families Invite Guests For Celebrations

Filipinos love to throw parties and celebrate with their friends and family. They’ll go all out for special occasions like birthdays, weddings, and religious holidays.

And you know what? They’ll make sure their guests are included in all the fun! For example, a fellow Filipino might say, “Punta ka sa birthday ko ha” (Come to my birthday, okay?) to ensure their guest doesn’t miss out on the party.

During this time, you can expect lots of delicious food, lively music, and warm hospitality! 

9. Offering Gifts Or Tokens Of Appreciation To Visitors

This can range from small souvenirs like keychains or t-shirts to more substantial gifts like local delicacies or handmade crafts. 

These “regalo” or gifts are a way for Filipinos to show their appreciation for their guests’ visit and to leave them with a tangible reminder of their experience in the Philippines.

10. Showing Interest In The Guest’s Culture And Background

Filipino hospitality also involves showing a genuine interest in the guest’s culture and background. 

Hosts may ask about the guest’s hometown, family, and customs and even try to learn a few phrases in the guest’s language.

For example, a host might say “Kumusta and nanay at tatay mo?” (How are your mom and dad?) to show their interest in the guest’s family and well-being.

But that’s not all! If you arrive when they’re cooking for lunch or dinner, they may ask questions like “Anong paborito mong pagkain?” (What is your favorite food?) and will try to cook it for you.

11. Expressing Gratitude And Appreciation For The Guest’s Visit

Finally, hosts often thank their guests for coming and may even express regret that the visit was too short. This helps make the guests feel valued and welcomed and creates a positive and lasting impression. 

For example, a host may say something like “Maraming salamat sa pagbisita” (Thank you very much for visiting) or “Sana magkita ulit tayo” (I hope we can see each other again).

How Do You Say Hospitality In Tagalog?

Useful Phrases For Visitors To Experience Filipino Hospitality

Here are some common phrases you may encounter when experiencing Filipino hospitality. Whether you are a tourist or a foreigner, knowing these conversational Tagalog phrases can help you communicate better and fully immerse yourself in the warmth of Filipino culture.

Frequently Asked Questions For Filipino Hospitality

Why are filipinos always smiling.

Filipinos are taught to smile even if there is a monsoon, drought, or even problems in relationships or money. It’s a culture that is deeply embedded in Filipinos to endure pain or believe in positive psychology.

Whether related to religion or just Filipino culture, resiliency is always a revered Filipino trait: whatever hardships they face, they triumph over them.

Is The Philippines Friendly To Foreigners?

Yes, Filipinos, no matter where you go, are very friendly, not just to foreigners but also to their own kin. Filipinos also love it if you appreciate their culture, their language (not just Tagalog), and most especially, their food.

There is also a saying that the natural way of detecting there’s a Filipino among the crowd is detecting if some of them use their lips to point someone or point in a direction!

If your plans of going to the Philippines are still unsettled, then we would like to suggest that you take a look at some videos or travel blogs about the top places to visit in the Philippines .

Why Are Filipinos Hospitable?

Filipinos always welcome anyone with open arms because they have a huge respect for community or pakikipagkapwa with other people. They also expect the same in return. In one of the Filipino traditions and rituals , utang na loob, or debt-of-gratitude, one must do kindness because they believe that the person that they will do this gesture to will do the same thing for them.

Practice Your Filipino Hospitality With Your Friends

As you can see, Filipino hospitality is a unique cultural practice that reflects its people’s warmth, kindness, and generosity. From their warm greetings to delicious food, you’ll feel like family in no time. 

And why not take it a step further? Learning Tagalog can open up a whole new world of connections and experiences.

With the Ling app , mastering Filipino (or any language) is easy and convenient. Get access to personalized lesson plans, interactive exercises, and native speaker feedback all in one app. 

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Discover more​

People also read

15-Minute Program Makes Learning Marathi Child’s Play

No Marathi On Babbel?: 3 Best Resources You Shouldn’t Miss

No Marathi On Duolingo? The #1 Best App To Use This 2023

Southeast asia, east europe.

© 2024 Simya Solutions Ltd.

An American’s Perspective on Filipino Hospitality

by | | Culture | 1 comment

Truly, the Filipino people are the most “take their shirt off their back for you” kind of people I have ever met.  I have known lots of cultures and this really stands out to me about Filipinos.

When I married my wife, I married into a Filipino family.  But I didn’t realize then that it would not just be my wife’s immediate family of five, but also her two-dozen aunts and uncles, and more than 50 first cousins.  Actually, the more I think about it now, when I married my wife, I married into the large Filipino family of more than 100 million people. Filipino hospitality goes beyond the friendly treatment of guests or a warm welcome into their home. It is Filipinos welcoming you to their family; in other words, Filipino hospitality means becoming a part of the Filipino family .  And what a large family that is! 

My wife told me that in the Philippines, when a guest visits (even long ago when there were no cell phones to alert hosts that a guest was coming), the hosts would immediately cater to the guests when they show up unannounced on their doorstep regardless of who they are, and spend money they can’t afford to buy these guests food and drinks (and more generous than necessary). To Filipinos, being hospitable is giving more than your best to make any guest feel at home as much as possible.  “Mi casa es su casa” is taken literally, and they want to make the guests feel as comfortable as possible.  And in a Filipino’s mind, comfort has a lot to do with food, and lots of food at that.  A guest leaving hungry is a sign of poor hospitality, and, conversely, guests are expected to eat when offered food by the family or indirectly risk sending a mixed message to those who put the extended effort into hosting them.

Although we live in the U.S., the Filipinos we meet here share the same hospitable nature.  I mean, it’s like they never left the Philippines.   Filipino hospitality has no borders or boundaries. The heck with the saying, “When in ______, make like the natives.”  Filipinos take their country with them everywhere they go.  Guests are made to feel like kings and queens, with hosts always making sure that the guests are comfortable and well fed. “Kain na” (Let’s eat) and “Kumain ka na ba” (Did you eat yet) are phrases I often hear when visiting a Filipino friend’s house.  All too familiar phrases that make guests like me know I’m in, and part of, a Filipino household.

Coming from an immigrant Italian family, I know that one main way we Italians show our love and affection is through food and general hospitality.  And it is very much the same way with Filipinos.  Parties at someone’s house, even if it’s just 15-20 people coming, can be composed of 15-20 different dishes in large trays.  Food is not something Filipinos skimp out on.  Filipino hospitality is not without food. One could even go as far as saying, Filipino hospitality without food is no hospitality at all.   As a matter of fact, they are even more overkill than Italians, making enough food to feed guests for several days.  Guests are expected to be full after parties; bloating bellies from food and beer are signs that the hosts have done their job right. But it doesn’t stop there. When guests are about to leave a party, they are encouraged (or at other times forced) to take food home. 

What makes Filipinos different from many other nationalities is that they openly welcome you to become a part of them. Filipino hospitality is hospitality not only to Filipinos, but to everyone, including non-Filipinos. Perhaps it’s because they have been colonized by Spain and  subsequently the United States, so they are used to having foreigners around.  However, what’s amazing is that Filipinos are excited and proud to show you what it means to be Filipino and welcome you to partake in the Filipino culture as if it were your own.  Unlike other cultures where foreigners have a difficult time integrating, many foreigners who visit the Philippines “feel at home.”  Certainly, that was my experience when I vacationed there for a whole month and got to explore many different parts of the country.  Upon my very first meeting with my wife’s relatives, they made me feel like I was one of them as I ate, drank, and sang karaoke with them on the street, as if we had always known each other. It’s also how I feel when I visit our Filipino friends’ homes here in the United States or hang out with their relatives.  I don’t feel like a guest, but rather, like close family.  In fact, Filipinos are so good at integrating others into their culture and lives that it can sometimes feel overwhelming.

I often feel that I am so immersed in all this Filipino-ness that I need a break from it to regain my American independence and my Sicilian ferality ‒ just enough to further appreciate Filipino hospitality and warmth. In such a gregarious culture, it can be amazingly difficult to find moments of peace when there are unannounced celebrations to attend every week, and when the family is much larger than I’m used to (so privacy ceases to exist). In those times when a little breather is called for (even if it’s just for a few hours), when I immerse myself again in all this Filipino-ness, time and time again, I appreciate that Filipinos are accepting of who you are.  No one will take your head off for being different.  Even if you like to be alone, are OCD about getting to places on time, wear your emotions on your sleeve, or simply don’t like to eat that much rice, just treat people with the same tenderness they treat you, and you will make them feel like a part of your cultural family as well. Filipino hospitality is about belonging: they will always make you feel like you belong. It’s a lesson to many of us that belonging is not limited to the families that raise us and grew up with, or the friends we’ve had since kindergarten; it can be in many places wherever Filipinos are, as they provide us the recipe for a Filipino hospitality that makes sure we belong: hosts who treat us like family, accept our tummies regardless of size and color, and feed us delicious food.

Please follow us for more interesting articles and videos!

If you enjoyed reading this article, please share with your family and friends 🙂, related posts:.

This is beautiful. It just made me prouder of my Filipino heritage. I hope you, your wife and kids are all doing well. Thank you for sharing your experience.

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Receive the top 100 most commonly used Filipino words for FREE!

Welcome to the Learning Filipino Family! Check your inbox in a few minutes to receive your FREE document.

Learning Filipino will send you the list shortly :) Enjoy!

Pin it on pinterest.

Reference.com

What's Your Question?

• History & Geography
• Science & Technology
• Business & Finance
• Pets & Animals

Why Are Filipinos Known to Be Hospitable?

Hospitality is a trait displayed by every Filipino, characterized by heart-warming generosity and friendliness exhibited to foreigners and locals alike. Filipinos receive guests, even strangers, in a warm and pleasant way, often going out of their way to make the visitor comfortable. It is a trait not confined to the upper class and can be found among the poorest members of society.

Filipino hospitality existed before Spain’s colonization of the Philippines. The natives welcomed the Malays, the first foreign settlers in the country and shared their local ways and technology. Even today, when guests arrives in Filipino homes during mealtime, they are offered whatever is being served for that meal. Most of the time, a new meal is prepared to the liking of the visitor. The Filipino hospitality is best exemplified in regard to foreign guests, who are treated with the utmost respect. Filipinos enjoy the company of foreign visitors, and most foreigners who have visited the country can testify to the warmth and friendliness of the locals.

Their hospitality is not only observed in the Philippines, but it is also found wherever Filipinos live. Filipino communities around the world help others adjust to the foreign country’s culture and ways. They often help their fellow Filipinos find shelter and work, opening up their own homes to provide a temporary home whenever necessary.

MORE FROM REFERENCE.COM

Search form

• Table of Contents
• Troubleshooting Guide
• A Model for Getting Started
• Justice Action Toolkit
• Best Change Processes
• Databases of Best Practices
• Online Courses
• Ask an Advisor
• Subscribe to eNewsletter
• Community Stories
• YouTube Channel
• About the Tool Box
• How to Use the Tool Box
• Privacy Statement
• Workstation/Check Box Sign-In
• Online Training Courses
• Capacity Building Training
• Training Curriculum - Order Now
• Community Check Box Evaluation System
• Build Your Toolbox
• Facilitation of Community Processes
• Community Health Assessment and Planning
• Section 7. Promoting Hospitality as a Way of Life

Chapter 28 Sections

• Section 1. Overview: Some Spiritual Assets for Community Building
• Section 2. Being Compassionate
• Section 3. Being Charitable Towards Others
• Section 4. Forgiveness and Reconciliation
• Section 5. Promoting Peace
• Section 6. Spreading Hope
• Section 8. Mindfulness and Community Building
• Section 9. Gratitude and Appreciation
• Section 10. Mercy

• Main Section

This and other sections in the Tool Box chapter on Spirituality and Community Building (Chapter 28) have been written with the support and contributions of experts connected with the Charter for Compassion. For more information about the Charter and its work, visit  www.charterforcompassion.org .

INTRODUCTION: THE VALUE OF HOSPITALITY

Hospitality is a valuable spiritual asset for community building. It is a sacred ancient art that makes room at the table of consciousness for everyone, stranger and guest alike. In the genuine warmth and welcoming spirit that hospitality is most known for, it spans cultural divides as a nonviolent pathway, transcending background and nationality.

Moreover, its inclusivity extends to all creatures and to our environment. While unique social customs may apply, a shared system of spiritual values and principled attitudes that create hospitality’s pure essence remain. And, as with all spiritual values, it is deeply embedded within human consciousness.

In this section, we will provide a working definition of hospitality, and note its importance in community life. Through personal stories and examples, we will show how community workers might apply it in community building, and suggest how it might be further developed and promoted. We will then conclude with some challenges and reflection questions regarding its current use.

Therefore, may you allow this discourse to be more of an invitation – a banquet of ideas to feast upon – to drop into that deeper space from heady logic into heart-felt expanse where you may encounter a resonant field from your own experiences that gives you permission to broaden your scope of perception, to open your thoughtful arms wider, and to embrace yourself, your family, your community, and humanity at-large. Then this very table is set just for you.

To prepare the ground for a rudimentary understanding of hospitality's richness, the Bible will be our initial guide, for it contains libraries of ancient oral stories replete with symbols of hospitality. Comprehending spiritual values is commonly accomplished through symbols that change with every new era. As a result, we can understand the symbols of today from the wisdom of yesterday.

Three stories of wisdom about hospitality have been chosen here to stimulate thought, expand spiritual awareness, and illustrate a new way to process ideas. The first story is that of Abraham, the patriarch of three major world religions – Judaism, Christianity, and Islam – who is often considered the father of nations and the father of hospitality. The second is from Jesus, who gave us the parable of the Good Samaritan in the Gospel of Luke. And the third is a contemporary story, based on the author’s own experience as a chaplain in today’s correctional institutions. Each of these stories provides an approach that not only touches our sentiments and inspires us to act, but also gives us clear guidance for how to systematically cultivate hospitality through observation, thoughtful questions, and gentle experiments that test our inspiration by moving us out of our comfort zones. In this way, we embody the spiritual values linked with hospitality, enabling them to vivify our way of life.

Especially noticeable within the stories and just as applicable in our times, authentic hospitality and hospitable behavior are able to conquer our fears of refugee migration and various crimes against humanity – hostility, bad blood, genocide, terrorism, and others. The importance and relevance of this understanding for our communities today cannot be overstated, for there is no condition where being the essence of hospitality in our relationships – toward each other, our environment, and all creatures, in all types of communities – will not bless our wide world.

THE STORY OF ABRAHAM

Abram, later renamed Abraham, was the Biblical patriarch who exemplified faith, fidelity, and hospitality. Genesis:12 tells the story of how Abraham was called by God to follow a step-by-step process of inner spiritual growth prior to becoming a successful community builder of developing nations, as was his promised destiny. He would need to:

• Follow God’s command
• Separate himself from his own heredity, heritage, traditions, and tribal views
• Transcend his own sensory indulgences
• Overcome great hostility from others, as experienced in the war with the five kings
• Be rewarded by the hospitality of Melchizedek, King of Salem (Peace), who appeared with nourishment – bread, wine, and blessings – for Abram's perseverance in seeking, finding, and utilizing his newly-discovered spiritual assets with each step taken
• Be renamed Abraham, personally identifying with those spiritual qualities as his own nature

By performing these tasks, Abraham was prepared to humbly provide a true sense of hospitality to visiting messengers through rest and comfort; he offered them shelter and food; he washed their feet; he served and protected them. He was then rewarded with safety for himself, and the promise of a child.

LESSONS FROM THE STORY OF ABRAHAM

Each step Abraham took, and each challenge he overcame, was rewarded by others until he was able to provide that same sense of hospitality to others through his now proven advanced spiritual qualities. Only then would God’s Biblical promise be fulfilled and multiplied throughout the communities and nations that Abraham would father.

This same pattern will work for us in building the true sense of community – our promised child. That definitive step-by-step process, from individual spiritual awakening to trusting the guiding principles, will cast out preconceived notions and obsolete traditions, leaving us with the hospitable nourishment that provides peaceful resolve for the day. Despite today's faster pace, we can tap into our own intuition to release antiquated belief systems that may prevent us from serving our communities from a peace-centered standpoint.

As community workers, we too will be faced or even blind-sided at times with various issues or challenges from co-workers, authorities, or political figures. Therefore, to prepare ourselves, it is well to ask, “Can I expect hospitality to save me from engaging in direct conflict?” and “Can it shift my perception to taking no offense from others’ ill-timed remarks, so that we may all continue to move forward in advancing the community?” When true hospitality is acquired, the answers to these questions will be a resounding “Yes.”

THE PARABLE OF THE GOOD SAMARITAN

In the Biblical books of Leviticus and Deuteronomy, the cornerstone of hospitality is presented:

And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. ... and thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

(Deuteronomy 6:5)

And further:

And if a stranger sojourn with thee in your land, ye shall not vex him. But the stranger that dwelleth with you shall be unto you as one born among you, and thou shalt love him as thyself; For ye were strangers in the land of Egypt....

(Leviticus 19:33)

In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus exemplifies these laws with his answer to a query of temptation: “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” (Luke 18:18). Through the famous Parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus then gives an answer showing how hostile brutality could be overcome through a relationship endowed with the full range of hospitality:

A certain man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who both stripped him and beat him, and departed, leaving him half dead. By chance a certain priest was going down that way. When he saw him, he passed by on the other side. In the same way a Levite also, when he came to the place, and saw him, passed by on the other side.

But a certain Samaritan, as he traveled, came where he was. When he saw him, he was moved with compassion, came to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. He set him on his own animal, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. … Now which of these three do you think seemed to be a neighbor to him who fell among the robbers?"

The questioner said, “He who showed mercy on him."

Then Jesus said to him, "Go and do likewise."

(Luke 10:30-34, 36-37, World Bible)

LESSONS FROM THE PARABLE OF THE GOOD SAMARITAN

The Good Samaritan displayed an unequaled sense of hospitality that incorporated moral courage in the midst of hostile territory – the courage to be honest, responsible, respectful, fair, and compassionate. And in practice it is "the willing endurance of significant danger for the sake of principle." (Kidder, 1996).

The road where the Good Samaritan happened upon the brutalized stranger was known as “The Way of Blood,” due to the constant, savage muggings normally ending in death. He, therefore, risked all for the sake of this principle – that all life matters – and proved that it is not enough to have spiritual values: Those values must also be put into action.

The Good Samaritan's response also illustrated a new and more advanced model of hospitality, one calling us to aid another in less than welcoming, even abhorrent, circumstances. And possibly even more profound was the fact that Samaritans were hated by the Jews. They were considered a blight on the face of humanity, mortal enemies, despised half-breed outcasts with no access to God or the Temple of Jerusalem.

Yet, here was a Samaritan with a consciousness so undefiled, so pure, that he did not see an enemy. He would illustrate what representatives of the religious and political arenas did not – great empathy, demonstrating compassion and love so lavish it knew no boundaries. The Samaritan bound up the man's wounds, carried him to an inn, cared for him through the night, and also gave the innkeeper enough money to continue his care for two months with the promise of more if needed – an unlimited sense of love without end.

For community builders, this parable leads us to ask ourselves: “Am I willing to become a spiritual activist of hospitality, as was the Good Samaritan?” “Am I a neighbor who loves lavishly in an unqualified way?” “Can I demonstrate love that knows no limitations to my family, let alone an enemy?” “Am I to show the same degree of hospitality to others within my community practice? If so, how?” “Do I understand that as I exemplify these core spiritual values of hospitality in daily practice, this gives others – recipients and observers alike – permission to do the same?” “What will my story be for my community: hospitable behavior, or a detached, apathetic attitude that walks on by?”

HOSPITALITY IN THE FACE OF A HOSTAGE SITUATION IN THE JUSTICE SYSTEM

(A recollection from Linn Moffett, the author of this section.)

As a chaplain in seven jails for over eight years, I have seen hospitality shine brightly in some very long and dark corners.

As a bit of a maverick chaplain, I once took action to encourage a county sheriff and guards to allow a separate meeting time for mentally challenged inmates, housed in their own cell block. The guards were ever finding ways to discourage activities for chaplains, and felt that they had the perfect solution to stop my persistence in attempting to bring adequate inspiration, spiritual, moral, and ethical teachings, hope, and comfort to the inmates.

On one of my appointed times for a group service for the men, the regular inmates were ushered into the chapel. The doors were closed and locked, with no attending guards on the inside. This act in itself was completely in violation of the rules. After a short interval, the men from the mentally challenged cell block were brought into the mix and we were all locked inside the same room. Again, with no attending guards. An added violation, as the mentally challenged were never to mix with the regular cell block inmates.

Mayhem ensued, as several guards watched through the back wall of bullet-proof glass, sneering and laughing. To their chagrin, I was completely unafraid as I sat in the front of the room. Then, one of the regular inmates in the front row, a very large man attempting intimidation in the midst of this chaos, stood up, puffed up, faced me directly, then boomed, “Well, honey, are you going to save us all?”

My initial reaction was a giggle. I then humbly responded, “No sir, that is not my job. I leave that up to the Christ.” He silently stood still for a moment, turned to the room of yelling inmates with flying debris, and with authority insisted that everyone sit down and be completely quiet or they would answer to him. Within moments the room was quiet, chairs in place with everyone seated, and there was a tangible presence of respect, honor, and gratitude. I continued the service, not only without any further scene but with a full complement of respectful attention.

This incident completely baffled the guards and brought a renewed respect for the office of chaplain from that time forward. One of the guards inquired, “Why weren't you afraid?” “How could you maintain composure through all of that chaos?” And, “Why did you not seek retribution from the participating guards, including me, in their power play, their complete abuse of the justice system, and your being put in a hostage situation by those who were paid to protect you?”

I gently smiled and advised him that I never did count on any of them for my protection. My protection came from embodying those spiritual qualities belonging to hospitality – an open, receptive, and nurturing love for humanity, along with drawing on the inner peace that calms and comforts no matter the storm. He became very pensive. This story was later circulated among the guards throughout the different maximum security jails. It even rippled into inmates’ cells across county lines as news travelled out into the communities, since it was considered a miraculous event. Having been shown actual evidence of a radical and spiritually-based hospitality, this one incident blessed even those chaplains of different faiths.

LESSONS FROM HOSPITALITY IN THE FACE OF A HOSTAGE SITUATION

A key lesson from this story, and from the other stories cited above, is that to act hospitably sometimes means moving out of one’s personal comfort zone; and it can mean taking some risk. But hospitable action is an incredibly powerful way to expand mind and heart.

So, can you let these stories become subjective? Can you allow them to manifest themselves in your home, in your business, in your thinking, in your body, and in your life – and then to go even beyond action, as we learn the art of being hospitable? After all, this is not only our true nature that we are contemplating; it is our true employment in the rebuilding of our individual natures – for ourselves, our communities, and our world.

DEFINITION: THE NATURE AND SCOPE OF HOSPITALITY

As we have seen through the above examples, hospitality is a compound idea – one that incorporates a number of spiritual values, tightly woven together. Its overarching essence is Love – a love for all of Life's manifestations, taking into consideration the artful details of ambience, service, cuisine, entertainment, and protection that warm and enchant the senses, satisfy the heart with attentive care and tenderness, promote festivity, provide a rhythm to life's expressions, and furnish a safe haven. As such, hospitality is a multi-faceted jewel with a treasure trove of virtues and spiritual values.

Hospitality's roots are derived from the Latin hospes (masculine) and hospita (feminine), and also, according to the Oxford and Webster Dictionaries, from the Old French hospitalite, all pointing to “the friendly and generous reception and entertainment of guests, visitors, or strangers.” Then, as modified by time, “… the business of entertaining clients, business delegates, or other official visitors.”

We also discover from its root that hospitality can refer to both host and guest, or to a traveling guest, or stranger. It is easy to recognize many of the derivative forms that it takes, such as hospice, hostel, hotel, hospital, host, and hostess. The innkeeper was considered as presiding over a house of God, providing a sacred place for shelter and sustenance for travelers, but more to receive strangers as guests.

Hospes/hospita , as stated, is also the source of the word “hospital,” “a word that in 14th-century English referred to an inn; took on in the 15th century the meaning of a refuge for the homeless, and was being used widely by the 16th century for an institution that cares for the sick.” References at the end of this section will allow a more in-depth investigation.

The French scholar and prolific contributor to the Encyclopedia, Chevalier Louis de Jaucourt (1704-1779) , describes hospitality as “the virtue of a great soul that cares for the whole universe through the ties of humanity.” He pointed out that historically a variety of cultures – in Egypt, Ethiopia, Persia, Italy, Greece, and Rome – expanded hospitality to include edifices built to receive and house foreigners beyond peoples' individual homes, whereas the Israelites narrowed their concept of hospitality when their commerce ended with neighboring communities.

The Germans, Celts, Gauls, and Atlantic peoples considered it sacrilege to close one's door to any man, known or unknown. Asians spared nothing in hosting their visitors, including the washing of feet or full baths prior to their welcoming festivities; afterwards, they would invoke the protecting gods of hospitality to watch over and care for their honored guests. And Indians, the most hospitable of all, treated slaves as themselves and welcomed travelers through the “establishment of hospices and specific magistracies for furnishing travelers with life's necessities,” even to the extent of “taking care of the funerals for those who died on their land.”

Since both giver and receiver were considered blessed through their coming together, it was an accepted form of gratitude for both to leave a gift that marked the hospitality given toward individuals, entire families, and even cities. A coin, piece of wood, or ivory would be cut in half and given to each party for posterity to mark the occasion as sacrosanct, much like the love heart half-necklaces and friendship bracelets of the 20th and 21st centuries. It was also generally accepted across cultures that if hospitality was not granted to an individual or group, it was considered a crime against humanity

Globally then, we discover that hospitality was considered a sacred art that united all nations, until commerce broke the ties of benevolence among individuals and shifted their focus from a love of people to a love of financial interest. Now, through a detached sense of humanity, the wealthy pay for the services of hospitality, further severing the ties that bind the hearts of men in fellowship.

Do we now understand that being authentically hospitable is a matter of our whole orientation to ourselves and to each other, as it redefines all of our relationships? It might also help to consider how blending the elements of hospitality enables us to touch the sentiments, creating a definite feeling of hospitality. A hospitable person is likely to exhibit tangible generosity of spirit, confidently comfortable and co-operative charitableness, unsparing graciousness, ungrudging sincerity, and an all-inclusive welcome with open-heartedness and festivity.

So as we sit on the hearth of hospitality, in the warmth of its grand array, we may contemplate the infinite range of its expression. We can hear its call, inviting us in to partake of this consciousness so vital to our own needs and that of our communities.

THE IMPORTANCE OF HOSPITALITY AND HOSPITABLE BEHAVIOR FOR COMMUNITY BUILDING

The relevance of hospitable behavior.

As we begin to understand through our definitions, stories, and a few real-life examples of hospitality, every layer of hospitable behavior reveals something new about the cohesiveness of the larger community of mankind. These lessons are not only relevant, but imperative for our health, welfare, and general living conditions.

People are hungry for community , and for communities that connect us in meaningful ways, especially when events, such as our current immigration crisis, challenge previous societal norms. As Michal Vasecka, a university sociologist from the Czech Republic, has stated: “We are deeply uninclusive societies. Migration reveals this unpleasant truth about ourselves.”

It is true that these are extraordinary times, uncovering our deepest fears. Could there then be a better time for authentic hospitality, inspired by love, to re-appear? Community builders have the potential to alter unhealthy barriers and welcome newcomers into a true community – one that is rich in diversity, conscious in acceptance, and where there is room at the table for everyone. Being hospitable can transform all of our relationships.

THE CONVERGENCE OF THE SCIENCES AND SPIRITUALITY IN HOSPITABLE BEHAVIOR

An emerging and exciting trend of consciousness studies is that neuroscience and psychotherapy are including and adopting spiritual practices. These in turn are re-creating practical approaches to overcome addictive spirals, and to help people heal from old, even generational traumas, so that they may live full, productive, and empowered lives. Those lives may then serve their beloved communities from a hospitable, healed space instead of being held hostage to their wounded places and combustible fear-based behaviors.

The neurosciences, supported by interdisciplinary scientific collaborations, now have definitive proof that the human nervous system responds very effectively to those spiritual characteristics inherent within hospitality. More than that, evidence shows that new pathways to higher functioning are simultaneously created – the brain actually lights up, creating a sense of euphoria.

Some sample developments:

• Heartmath , which utilizes modern technology to teach people how to live from the heart, is just one of many scientific organizations that recognizes humanity's need to move from learned habits that are less than hospitable and that negatively affect the health of mankind. It emphasizes technological tools to enhance spiritual-mindedness.
• Bruce H. Lipton , a pioneering biologist, has shown in his Biology of a Belief and other books how our limited and temporal belief systems shape patterns of behavior that affect every cell within our bodies. Negative input appears as disease, whereas spiritual-mindedness filled with positive input appears as a co-operative system that is able to spontaneously evolve.
• The Science of Being Institute takes a different approach, by redefining human anatomy as a system of temporal beliefs that could keep mankind entangled in a false framework of reference ruled by selfishness instead of selflessness. Such systems can train us out of our basic spiritual essence, even though we are naturally open to the heart of humanity, and can spontaneously evolve with a spiritual understanding that elevates the human race.

These are just a few organizations and individuals dedicated to re-educating and helping humanity that take a different direction to heal old wounds for the betterment of our communities and all their residents. If we can therefore cultivate and develop those characteristics that create hospitable behavior, we will get a direct payoff by living better and caring for each other all along the way.

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF HOSPITALITY IN COMMUNITY BUILDING

The effect of hospitality on an individual and/or community is to stir the human sentiments to a more loving standard of being – cooperating and cohabitating as neighborhoods within communities.

Community builders will discover that to be truly effective, a few key elements of hospitality must be perpetually present: mutual respect, the ethics of reciprocity, and friendly, interdependent co-operation. These powerful components help gain trust that builds personal confidence in relationships and therefore helps construct a thriving and sustainable community, where individuals continue to be inspired to work with each other for the common good.

However, many times it is more difficult to be effective with people that we do know or have been working with, since we have made assumptions about them. It may be easier to be hospitable toward those we are not close to. If we discover this is true, it is a definite call to check our motives. Do we actually embrace the qualities of hospitality as part of our own nature, or is it just surface appearance? If it is superficial, we are in for a rude awakening, since the deep-seated truth of any situation will eventually rise to the surface, compromising the health of any relationship and certainly any joint effort.

Recalling the Good Samaritan's supremely effective hospitality, we should ask ourselves: “Will we walk on the other side of the street or not even look into the eyes of that homeless person, thereby depriving him or her of being considered worthy of membership in our community?” “Have we ever shared a sandwich with them on the curbside or under a tree?” “Do we understand, or just underestimate, their predicament?” “Are we able to care, to take the time to talk with them, and not think that by giving them a dollar we have fulfilled our quota in being a community builder?” That has never been an effective solution.   

It is true that some are mentally challenged, and others abuse the system from learned responses to poverty; but it is also true that some have fallen prey to the economic crisis, forced migration, or an abusive situation, and that any form of hospitality would bring relief to their suffering.

And are we conscious of those in need within our communities? This is not to imply that we should look for problems that are not there, but rather to be conscious and ready to extend a helping hand to all living beings, whether by providing directions to a stranger with the gift of a warm smile, by picking up a baby bird that has fallen from her nest and gently putting her back in, or by helping a senior bicyclist who has found the only pothole in the street and crashed in the midst of traffic.

All these scenarios and certainly many more are invitations to become conscious of our community surroundings and to promote hospitality as an effective and health-giving solution, both in minor details as well as in major community projects.

FAVORABLE CONDITIONS FOR BEING HOSPITABLE

All conditions are favorable for being hospitable, but some are more favorable than others. It is especially desirable and useful to be hospitable when:

• There have been particular conflicts in the community.
• There is a particular opportunity for community leaders and members to promote hospitality, such as when there has been an influx of new residents to the community, whether as job-seekers, refugees, or otherwise.
• Some members of the community have been criticized, rejected, or physically or emotionally harmed simply because of their association with a particular group or category.

But another favorable and necessary condition for hospitality involves personal, spiritual, and physical preparation. If such preparation has not been made, it is much more difficult for true hospitality to be expressed. For real change, transformation, metamorphosis – whatever term appeals to you – is ushered in only through spirit-infused messages as when heart speaks to waiting heart. It is important to ask yourself if you are ready and able to have the humility that it takes to allow these changes to take place.

As an example, let’s consider a community meeting I once chaired as President. It had escalated into hostile expressions of strong differences of opinion. One person's passionate reaction, voice tonality, and body language had been triggered by a single word in a discussion and immediate hostility ensued, leading to verbal battle. But as Chair, I engaged in a full array of hospitable behavior, as sacred listening, empathy, a peaceful resolve, and mindful (not reactionary) response were welcomed into my thought. The situation gently defused; the atmosphere shifted to the positive, demonstrating that hospitable behavior strengthened the group, with the added benefit of providing an example of how hospitality can pro-actively resolve conflicts.

Across the globe, the world convulses with old and new forms of more aggressive acts of oppression, tyranny, and terror, because the collective consciousness is being fed through negativity. Yet this is exactly where heartfelt hospitality is able to break down such negative influences. Through inner stillness, the qualities of hospitality provide the balance innately woven within the structure of each one of us, our beautiful planet, and our universe – from a blade of grass to the cosmos and everything in between. We just need to be reminded of who we really are and how we can attune to this larger system, since our lives extend far beyond our perceived limitations.

That is, a fundamental aspect of hospitality and of our human experience is that all life is interdependent, operating as an integral whole. We need each other. As translated down to our everyday experiences, it is not necessarily what is said, it is rather what the other person hears that has everything to do with how we make them feel. Therefore, the qualities of hospitality play a crucial role in every part of our everyday life – not just in the basic courtesy or warm welcome extended to a guest in our home, or even to an action to reconcile a disagreement. In this sense, the definition of “home” can be extended and redefined to be that sacred place called spiritual consciousness, which is always hospitable.

And yet, some of the bigger questions remain. To what extent are we ready to take on a commitment to being fully hospitable? How far will we go to advocate for an individual case, service, or cause that would raise the community to be a model for others to follow? Do we have the courage to really listen to the community's heartbeat, move into its rhythm, and participate at any level? Is it our responsibility? Are we willing to move out of our perceived comfort zones to extend comfort to others right where they are?

My personal experience has been that if you are the one that is presented with a community challenge, then it is yours to meet; for at some level you have been prepared for it to show up and teach you higher levels of hospitable behavior for the community and its people. We must learn to take off self-imposed limitations to discover our freedom and therein find moments of free time to serve our communities and both create and sustain more favorable conditions.

HOW TO BE HOSPITABLE: STORIES AND LESSONS OF HOSPITALITY IN ACTION

As community builders, there are almost unlimited opportunities to provide hospitality, in widely varying settings. And offering such hospitality can allow us to express our creativity in ways that can not only involve sharing a festive meal, but can also enchant the senses, furnish a safe haven, and satisfy the heart with attentive care and tenderness.

Let’s give some examples. In this part of our section, we offer some varied stories and lessons about hospitality in action.

HOSPITALITY ACROSS CULTURAL DIVIDES

An assignment from a major Japanese corporation was for me to provide hospitality to a young Japanese couple who had just arrived in America on a five-year contract. I was chosen to make them feel at home in their new culture – a high honor, since Japanese people are known for their hospitality. This position drew upon the full range of what I knew about hospitality and had been using as a daily practice of service to humanity.

Our first meeting was mildly successful. The twenty-something couple came to visit for a casual lunch. They were gently curious about everything and requested a full tour of my modest home. Pleasantly surprised to discover that I had a penchant for Orientalia, they exuded excitement as they came upon a triptych, an original artwork by a famous Japanese artist. My guest explained that this work represented the ancient art of Chokin, originating in 10th and 11th -century Japan to decorate Samurais' armaments, and that the original meaning of samurai is “those who serve.” The core values of a samurai and of hospitality are much the same.

The next week, my husband and I were invited to their apartment and treated as highly honored guests. The husband and wife, donning their beautiful kimonos, greeted us in deeply held low bows of stillness. They explained their social customs as we were humbly led through the rituals of bowing, shoe removal, and sitting on the floor. There we received small hot cleansing towels and then experienced the full tea ceremony with freshly prepared confections and a gentle conversation that continued for about three hours. The tea was a delicious extravagance from Japan. Attuned to my sensory delight, they presented me with a generous supply of tea as a gift.

Their every movement was an exquisite display of fluidity, poetry, and attentiveness – an art where every motion was accomplished with such conscious awareness as to paint beauty into the atmosphere being breathed in and then translated as inner peace.

I was so deeply infused with this type of prayerful practice that I would never be the same; I would now upgrade my sense of hospitality into everyday gratitude and service of this type at home and within my community.

Can you imagine a community permeated with this type of hospitality? Where harmony promotes a feeling of oneness with all people and all nature, including the atmospheric conditions. Where respect is naturally born of a grateful heart and animates one’s every action toward others and even to inanimate objects. Where purity of thought is as important as the cleanliness of one's home or a dish, the spiritual focus remaining the same throughout every task. And, where a tangible state of tranquility , not attainable through conscious effort but as a way of grace, serves as the same dynamic and significant force that infused the tea ceremony . Are you ready to embrace this honorable and peace-centered state of being for your own sake and that of your home, community, and country? These deep underlying qualities have been preserved for millennia. They yield an enhanced life-style that is warm and welcoming, higher profitability in all things including relationships, and greater long-term growth, development, and sustainability for the community and its people. Who would not want to bring these combined energies to bear in building this new model of hospitable behavior?

TEACHING CHILDREN HOSPITALITY – FROM THE REMOTE AREAS OF AFRICA

A simple and beautifully touching practice in remote areas of Kenya is that young children are taught to always prepare more food at every meal than is necessary for the family, in constant anticipation that a weary traveler might be in need of sustenance and a place to rest for the night.

This is an early education in hospitality where the gift of benevolence is from their abundant heart, not from scarcity or want. Nor does fear enter in, for there is an unspoken reality that any traveler would be a fool to steal from or harm a host, since the entire community would become first responders to protect any host family. And though tribalism remains prevalent, a vibrancy still radiates into the neighborhoods and binds them together, continuing to strengthen their cohesiveness through hospitable behavior toward each tribe, as common ground is shared. The successful story of Ngochoni Petals of Africa School  is just such a narrative.

HOSPITALITY WITHIN AN INTERFAITH FOUNDATION ON A UNIVERSITY CAMPUS

The only interfaith foundation located on a university campus in the U.S. is housed in a small temporary building, but one normally burgeoning with the smiling faces of students, clergy, and professors. It is a hub of activity where spiritual meetings, counsellings, and multi-faith services occur constantly. A unique aspect of this community also involves a well-attended weekly luncheon open to students, professors, priests, chaplains, ministers, rabbis, imams, and any other denomination wishing to be represented.

Sharing meals together is an aspect of hospitality that builds strong relationships, seen here in the joy of working with each other – in this case, through setting up and breaking down tables and chairs, decorating for celebrations, group cooking and serving of food, musical performances, and stimulating conversations.

An abundant cultural diversity is ever-present. Everyone interacts with loving countenances, whether they are doing homework, socializing, eating, or praying individually or collectively. Fundraising events are always well attended, since the key attributes of hospitality are shared – warm welcomes, willing hands, and open hearts.

This Interfaith Foundation provides a safe haven where hospitality is practiced effortlessly on a daily basis, as a natural outcome of love and gratitude for its sacred space on campus.

HOSPITALITY IN SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES AND NEIGHBORHOOD OPEN FORUMS

Teaching all age levels of Sunday school classes in a church and teaching multi-cultural Open Forums in neighborhoods have brought considerable opportunities to utilize and teach hospitality and hospitable behavior for more than 30 years. Through use of stories and symbols (Jedi Training was a favorite for the youngsters – do not be afraid of improvisation and innovation) appropriate for each grade level, hospitable attitudes were discussed and practiced as the youth wrestled with moral and ethical issues, too often far beyond their innocence.

Spiritual teaching is not meant to be theoretical, but rather supremely practical in the everyday lives of each of us, and it is certainly necessary to train our youth in interacting with family and friends, classmates, school groups, and teachers. Hospitality and its inherent qualities are needed assets for their mental lunch boxes and to counteract popular cultural obsessions, such as noses in cell phones. I supported their growing understanding through mentoring sociability beyond Sunday school and open forums, by attending their school classrooms, drama clubs, and dinners with parents. This provided a blueprint for the students and parents to follow in being hospitable within their own spheres.

As a servant leader, teacher, and radical hospitality advocate, this work was a true community-building activity that gave young children, youth, and adults a very different experience, with a focus on the importance of creating communities based on their inherent hospitable qualities.

HOSPITALITY IN THE RESORT INDUSTRY

When I was working in the hospitality industry, with Silver Tray and French Service training, an opportunity was presented to take these skill sets to a large newly-acquired ski resort in New York to interview, select, and train the entire service staff. This offer was presented not just for the skills that had been developed, but more for the fact that I was considered one of the most successful servers, based on gratuities received.

I was forced to analyze why this was true – for at the time, I was just grateful for the income. As this opportunity unfolded, I interviewed a large contingent of New York residents with little to no service background. Therefore, hiring choices were largely based upon personality, since skills can be taught to those who are open and receptive to learning something new. I also had the pleasure of planning and selecting the new interior design color palette and all accessories to create an ambiance of warmth, generosity, and wealth.

However, in order for the resort and staff to be successful, I discovered that it was the culturing of spiritual qualities found inherent in the term  hospitality  that was necessary and would also need to be included as a vital aspect of the staff's training. Naturally and effortlessly, this then translated to a very successful resort experience for the guests and the staff, and kept the resort running above 90% occupancy. This same principle applies to the success of volunteerism in not-for-profit activities, including fund/friend-raising and community work.

Today we are entering a new area of economics, but the sacred continues to evolve in all things; and we shall discover that the same spiritual qualities and ethics found in hospitality are true for all of mankind's endeavors.

HOSPITALITY FROM A UNIQUE BED AND BREAKFAST PERSPECTIVE

As we have noted, hospitality in recent years has taken on more of a capitalistic orientation, of entertaining business clients, delegates, or other official visitors. But the real-life experience described below can help us in understanding the business of hospitality from a spiritual viewpoint, and that viewpoint’s impact upon the larger community

The owner/hostess of a bed and breakfast (B&B) in an artistic community shared a unique perspective. Her idea of hospitality was to set a good table. This woman, a self-pronounced non-religious individual with the heart of a lion and soul of an artist, practiced the height of hospitality daily in creating an atmosphere that welcomed all without bias or judgment of any sort. She saw no enemies and never met a stranger. Clients who attempted confrontation were disarmed with compassion. This consciousness proved to be a bulwark of safety and hospitable giving for more than 17 years in her home as a bed and breakfast hostess.

It was not an ordinary B&B. She and her husband started the bed and breakfast as a way to fund-raise for their favorite charity. For the first three years, all proceeds went to the charity, not just a percentage. Their joy was so great and unburdened that they decided to design and build a “'green” home to provide a special respite for travelers – an idea far in advance of the green movement of today.

In the design, beautiful form and function were taken into account at every turn, from the angle of the house to the sun's trajectory, placement of cathedral-style windows and skylights, solar energy panels, and rainwater caught into huge holding tanks, all proving that their concept of hospitality transcended the norm and extended to the environment, the land, and the abundant wildlife in this seaside village in the pines. No wonder they were wildly successful. And this all began when she was 65 years young.

This B&B owner/hostess described her clientele as a self-selected group quite different from travelers seeking the hotel/motel experience of anonymity. Her guests, old and new looked forward to family-style morning breakfasts with lively face-to-face conversations. Baroque music softly caressed each thought as the smell of fresh coffee ladened the air, and Swedish pancakes, fresh fruit, and syrup tantalized the taste buds. All this was against the backdrop of a warm, colorfully-set table with touches of whimsy that pleasured the soul, high on a hill looking through cathedral windows onto a pine forest just a mile from the Pacific Ocean.

Who could resist such a delightful experience, an undefiled expression of love in action? Certainly, this woman knew how to set a good table and to operate a thriving business, but also to serve the community through the spiritual asset of hospitality.

THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF HOSPITALITY As we learn more about the guiding principles of hospitality, do not be surprised if a transformation begins to appear. Where might that transformation lead? Within yourself , it might lead you to become more: Inspired and courageous Clear (selfless, unencumbered by agendas) Disciplined and happy Powerful (“ When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace” – Jimi Hendrix) Abundant Openly authentic and dignified Peaceful Filled with purpose for the common good Toward others, you might become more : Welcoming and receptive (as a listener) Compassionate Focused Friendly, polite, and relatable Generous and charitable Honest Comforting and comfortable Filled with grace, and ready to reciprocate and nourish And the Community itself might become more : Mindfully curious Resilient Steadfast Responsible and constructive in dialogue Dynamic Ethical Resolved Joy-filled, in celebration that its members have the honor to be in service to it Cultivating hospitality and hospitable behavior is one of the wisest possible investments: It is an investment in self, in relationships, in community, and in global affairs.

DEVELOPING AND PROMOTING THE ART OF HOSPITALITY

As can be seen and felt through the previous illustrations, a first requirement in developing and promoting hospitality is to approach the setting from a peaceful center of prepared and expectant thought. But, how do we get there from here?

Recall that hospitality is a spiritual value with many branches, reaching out in a non-linear manner. Accordingly, developing hospitality requires an openness and receptivity of thought as the starting point for the seed of hospitality to grow, develop, and be promoted. Many methods enable us to move into a central space of inner peace. And while what works for one might not work for another, one useful pathway is described below.

TEACHING AND LEARNING HOSPITALITY AND HOSPITABLE BEHAVIOR THROUGH A MEDITATIVE PRACTICE

 For those searching for a way to calm their internal chatter and to rediscover their spiritual center for authentic hospitality to shine through, I have designed a creative process called Seven Steps to Cultivate Spiritual Consciousness. A description and details of these Seven Steps are given in a tool that accompanies this section . The Seven Steps have proven to be very effective in transforming behaviors not previously aligned with hospitality’s spiritual values. While this process is not meant to be proscriptive or prescriptive, it can speed individual and collective or group progress to learn how to:

• Grasp the nuances of hospitality that can expand one’s frame of reference
• Enhance confidence, empower gentleness of spirit, and move unhelpful emotional behavior out of consciousness
• Hear and heed one’s inner voice of guidance, to enable the constant discovery of fresh, innovative ideas
• Allow the flow of a genuine hospitable demeanor that continues to expand and become more inclusive for its community

The Seven Steps teach us that we should celebrate goodness wherever found, for the spirit of hospitality is most ardently felt when human relationships, familiar customs, and the belief systems of old are undergoing dramatic changes. And we should embrace these changes with gratitude and appreciation, since these are measures of our spiritual evolution from hostility to hospitality.

While we have identified seven key steps to cultivate spiritual consciousness, continued practice is the key. We should not think that a surface study of this or any teaching and learning tool will accomplish anything. We are rather describing a meditative practice that requires persistence, cherishing, and nurturing hospitality to bring forward its gifts. We should listen to our soul with newfound spiritual understanding, for that opens doors to profoundly enhance our lives and the communities we live, work, and play in. In the words of Lao Tzu, “Music in the soul can be heard by the universe.”

To bring home the practical value of meditative practice, let us illustrate with some examples showing how such practice can lead to powerful real-world results.

REAL-LIFE EXAMPLES OF HOW MEDITATIVE PRACTICE INSPIRES BUILDING COMMUNITY

Training Volunteers in the Art of Hospitality

I was called upon by the headquarters of a major East Coast publishing house to recruit and develop a cadre of over 100 volunteer publisher representatives to contact bookstores on the West Coast. This entailed training in many areas. It was a grassroots project requiring a pioneering spirit; the new recruits who wanted to be part of this project had very little experience in anything closely related.

The new recruits needed to be trained in hospitality. This training was interactive, based on the Seven Steps to Cultivate Spiritual Consciousness, described in the Appendix to this section. It taught how to overcome resistance by first addressing resistance within ourselves. This method acts as a filtration system that answers objections before they arise, in an approach so gentle that it is rarely recognized.

In addition to gathering the recruits and training them through group and individual sessions, it was my job to orchestrate bookstore events, and the volunteer's work to ensure that every bookstore in the Los Angeles basin and surrounding cities was fully stocked with a particular book. Since many bookstores had not heard of this book or author, it was very necessary for the volunteers to understand and assimilate the spiritual qualities of hospitality – for these assets are more effective influencers than traditional sales techniques. And ultimately, the majority of stores responded positively by carrying this book.

The majority of the volunteers had absolutely no experience in the area of hospitality, let alone meeting face-to-face with managers who did not want to stock anything beyond what was already on their shelves and back rooms. It quickly became apparent that a large group training day on hospitality was needed. I set out to find a facility that would accommodate a large group meeting centrally located to the majority of volunteers.

So I was pleasantly surprised to discover a premier hotel of historical significance in Manhattan Beach, CA, owned by a former movie star with a heart of great benevolence. As I shared my hope to do a mass training on hospitality for our work, she offered her hotel and personnel gratis if she and some of her staff could attend the sessions. It was a beautiful example of Love's synchronicity.

As a servant leader who saw this project succeed through those volunteers, my gratitude continually spilled over. Gratitude is another powerful aspect of hospitality that gives birth to unexpected blessings in unforeseen ways of sheer delight – expect this in your own work!

In this example, a micro-community of devoted individuals was created within an enormous metropolis, spreading the spiritual qualities of hospitality on every street they traveled, in every hand shaken, and in every bookstore. Its impression can still be felt. And it was recognized and appreciated by the East Coast publisher, who then sent me to represent them and train others at American Book Association meetings in Chicago, then to Boston, and to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, to further train an international group of sales managers.

Hospitality within the Neighborhood

Every morning in the wee hours of a breaking dawn, I would walk my two beloved Afghan Hounds prior to getting the household up and out to school and myself to work. It was often a time of deep reflection and prayer to start the day. However, admittedly there were times that walking the dogs often felt more like a chore, instead of appreciating all that these beauties gave to the family unit. And there were days when I actually resented this activity, even though the dogs were not my children's but mine.

But one day, after many years of walking the same route throughout the neighborhood, an elderly neighbor came outside to engage us. She let me know that she was moving. At first thought, since I was also President of our homeowner's association, I assumed that was her reason for approach.

However, as she continued, she informed me with undeterred gratitude that every morning she would sit by the window with her coffee and wait for us to walk by. This very act of walking my dogs caused her to feel a sense of deep peace and complete safety. She further confided that she could feel the love I expressed for my dogs and for our community partly by my being consistently present over so many years.

We embraced as tears freely flowed for our individual reasons of sheer gratitude. Such gratitude is a powerful aspect of hospitality – for one cannot effectively receive without knowing how to give unconditionally. The welcome recognition that I had touched someone's heart without being consciously aware of it was actually an “unconditional” act of giving love, flowing unrestrictedly out into the community.

This was a powerful example of hospitality in action. Here is another:

The Direct Healing Power of Hospitality

As a Chaplain, my early morning spiritual practice after walking my Afghan Hounds was to study, meditate, and pray for several hours prior to any other activity. One morning a friend, who was driving a great distance to share a pre-planned shopping day, literally blew through the front screen door enraged due to a difficult three-hour trip. Another motorist had attempted to run her off the road and nearly succeeded. It did not help her red-faced and shaking body to discover that I was still at prayerful study and not ready to shop. For every time I attempted to get up to dress, it was as if a hand on my shoulder sat me back down to continue in prayer. I obliged without question.

The preparation of spiritual consciousness was about to open several gifts in this one day. First, as I quietly looked upon my friend in my home, without leaving my chair and without a word, I witnessed her rage melt like hot wax down her body to her feet and then disappear. She stood in stillness for a moment, then warmly smiled and gently asked if I was now able to get ready for our day together. I lovingly smiled and moved to do just that.

Second, now completely refreshed and relaxed, she insisted on driving. As we approached our first destination, there were two men holding torn hand-made cardboard signs of “Will work for food.” Not an uncommon sight for all too many years now. However, this time was very different for me. I insisted that we stop to talk to one man in particular. My friend was completely against this activity, but with a definite confidence I boldly persisted. I knew exactly which man I was to speak with and made arrangements to pick him up the next day.

From a perspective of worldly consciousness, my friend insisted I was not only foolish but over-the-top unwise (attended by several expletives!). It consumed her thought as continued objections flowed from her heart. How could I even consider taking a homeless man into my home? These objections lasted throughout the entire day of shopping and ranged from every suggestion of robbery to bodily suffering and torture to violent death, all in an attempt to move my thought from the higher consciousness that I was entertaining into a state of fear. Any portion of fear would have satisfied her.

Even as I tried to quench her fears with every breath, I could see that my statements, although filled with the spirit of love, were never going to be enough to convince her that there is safety in following spiritual intuition that permeates consciousness. And maintaining the purity of one’s spiritual intuition is necessary to assure that safety – for even a thought seed of corruption, no matter how slight or subtle, will spoil the entire blessing and cause it to drop into the land where fear is king. To maintain the axiom, “As in heaven, so on earth” was my current job, and she (and I) were about to discover this in real time through my experience, which she would later share.

We had been best friends for a very long time; our children had gone through their teen years together and were now on their own with their own families. My only roommates were my beloved pets. Normally I would have considered her objections, given her strong ability to persuade based on our long friendship. However, this situation did not come under the umbrella of anything humanly derived or contrived. It was an invitation from my spiritual intuition to accept the man's work in exchange for food.

After picking the man up the next day, I showed him all that needed repair in my home. Previous handymen and carpenters had advised that some small items were not repairable. I was about to discover the largesse of hospitality’s blessing – for both of us. This man was a talented carpenter and advised that everything could be repaired, from the smallest of items to the larger.

My next insistence to this fellow involved a much needed shower, while I washed all of his belongings including his sleeping bag. The smells were very difficult to work with and overcome, but I was able to provide him with fresh clothing from a son's closet that I had not gone through and then cooked him a full hot meal prior to any work expected or accomplished. Our dinner conversation was completely open as he shared his experiences of being homeless – the why's and the wherefores. Based on laws from another state, his former wife had taken the house he had designed and built for their life together, leaving him with only his truck and tools.

Then he had been beaten, and had all of his tools stolen, then his truck. He literally had nothing left. Another homeless man had provided him with the stinky sleeping bag that he had been using for over a year – his only warmth and sense of comfort. When I met him, he was living under a bridge. And, being homeless, he was forced to be continually on the move, hiding under bushes or highway underpasses, since a homeless person in our society often runs afoul of the law. (Law enforcement is frequently on the lookout to move homeless people out of their communities. Has your own city become a City of Compassion and hospitality in the broadest sense? If so, inherent blessings will be revealed.)

I was so divinely impelled by this gentle man's presence and complete honesty that I offered him a full complement of hospitality in exchange for his work. This included sharing my home, with his own bathroom and new toiletries, and preparation of all food – we ate meals together, I did his laundry, and trusted him in my home when I worked and shopped for the food. He repaired everything with the talent of an artisan and beyond, even to painting a room. In the evenings, we shared brilliant conversations, board games, and television; we became great “roommates.”

He accepted my hospitality for about a month when my best friend, though originally antagonistic to this situation, asked if he would help at her home in the mountains (since I hadn’t turned up dead). He agreed. She was able to provide him with a small wage and a place to live in exchange for his work. Several months later, she helped him find his next position, a more lucrative situation that allowed him to re-enter a new way of life where he belonged, because he had been healed of his grief and deep resentment.

There is no way to measure the benefits of the expansion of consciousness and spiritual power brought about by this full experience in hospitality, with all of its added blessings to everyone participating. We spiritually heard each other’s song, sang it back to them, and strengthened the fabric of humanity as a whole by a small degree.

POTENTIAL START-UP IDEAS FOR HOSPITALITY IN NEIGHBORHOODS

Community hospitality night.

Many communities I have lived in participate in an annual Hospitality Night, usually in December. It is a wonderful celebration of community in the downtown area where neighbors meet. Holiday decorations and lights line the streets creating a sense of magic, while neighbors stroll with their families and pets, greeting others and meeting new friends.

Live music is in the air and throughout the streets, with costumed carolers roaming, and a special arrival of Santa and his reindeer at his “house,” with real snow trucked in from the mountains of California for the children. As their parents wait in line, the children can play in the snow before sharing their hopes and dreams with Santa. There are tree lightings, church choir bells, and sing-alongs, with trolleys up and down the coastline adding to the celebration.   

Ceremonies of appreciation and gratitude for community members and volunteers for their individual contributions take center stage and are a vital aspect of this hospitable celebration. Businesses provide food and drink gratis along with significant store discounts; some even hire talented musicians who create their own ambience within the individual stores. It is an atmosphere of warmth, joy, and goodwill that affects the behavior of all participating – so much so, that I have witnessed several long-term neighbor-to-neighbor misunderstandings melt within this infectious climate of kindness and fellowship.

HOSPITALITY GIFT BASKETS FOR NEW NEIGHBORS

While the greatest gift of all would be to cast a loving thought into the heart of a new neighbor, an additional idea is a gift basket to allow hospitality to enter with the spirit of a warm and genuine smile. A basket filled with information about the new neighborhood, along with an introduction to local restaurants, coffee shops, dry cleaners, and churches, and together with a chamber of commerce map of the area and coupons from local businesses can all be very useful. But don't neglect the creative inclusion of favorite delectable items, flowers, or plants from those individuals delivering the basket, for these can begin a conversation and help get to know a new neighbor and family.

If children are involved, this is also a wonderful opportunity for established neighbors to bring their children for introductions, which also becomes a teaching moment for the giver and receiver of the wonders of hospitality within the neighborhood. Yet don't leave it there: A follow-up visit would show that your hospitable intentions are genuine.

SOME OTHER IDEAS

Other ideas might include:

• Block parties, which could grow into full neighborhood-wide parties
• Cooking a shared meal together with different friends, neighbors, and invited guests
• A potluck meal with friends to support a favorite local charity, shelter, or halfway house
• An open house for the holidays, serving a meal to whomever walks in the door – this was a huge success in my experience for 21 years on New Year's Day, as part of a French Toast Celebration while watching the Rose Bowl Parade.

Be creative, and explore new ways to share your hospitality and your love within your community, overcoming any latent fears that would impede your moving forward.

SOME LESSONS FOR COMMUNITY BUILDERS

• To build a culture of hospitality within the communities we serve, our first imperative is to address our own spiritual centeredness, and to develop a starting point of peace.
• Next, we must effectively identify a community's needs, by recognizing the new drivers of change: consciousness-building, education, environment, socioeconomic conditions, and technology.
• Then we need to unlock innovative approaches to serve basic human needs hospitably, based upon being valued, interconnectedness, safety, staying in wonderment, and having fun along the way (don't take yourself too seriously).
• While engaged in this process, community builders should ask: “Does this innovation address a basic need in a new and creative way?” “What new expectations will be created?” “What impact will it have on the community?” “How will it influence the community's residents, visitors, and tourists?” “Will there be any ramifications from the proposed change(s)?” And “How will hospitality's qualities continue to be the motivating force for residents and visitors alike?”
• Light each other's enthusiasm, and ability to launch their own innovative ideas.
• Create a shared platform for innovation through collaboration – for the work is faster, more effective, and definitely more enjoyable when done together.
• Empower each other as valued and trusted colleagues and innovators. We shouldn’t fear experimentation through blending ideas; our vulnerabilities can be a source of courage for change.
• Disrupt routines to keep our work fresh, without interfering with incremental changes for the community: Be spontaneous!
• Recognize that each participant can make an invaluable difference.

If we can apply these principles in practice, that will surely bring us closer to the hospitable community we all desire.

CHALLENGES, ISSUES, AND QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION

We have reviewed hospitality from individual and collective standpoints – frequently looking inward, for hospitality is an inner journey of self-realization, revealing beautiful spiritual characteristics that reside within each one of us.

However, there will be many challenges to our authenticity in being hospitable. One of the most common is disagreement with another, which tends to show up through competitive and comparative evaluations made by the ego. Until we learn how to build or re-build a strong inner core of spiritual qualities that are not at odds with each other, patient listening will be required.

In essence, we need to unlearn the false societal educational messages that bind us to childhood beliefs and generational traumas, instead of our evolving to a higher state of conscious hospitable behavior. We seek a conscious coming together in unity (comm-unity) where we feel safe, because we know our neighbors' attitude matches our own – with a strong bond of reciprocity – leading to a sense of trustworthiness, caring, and well-being. This is as contrasted with a false sense of safety that is devoid of the aforementioned spiritual assets.

Take a moment to consider this example: How it would be for you to receive hospitality, from the perspective of an immigrant refugee family that had just arrived in town? Respond to their plight as if it were your own; let compassion well up within you as you feel their sense of being displaced, knowing no one, having no compass point of reference, with little to no resources, being homeless, with pangs of hunger evident through pain-stricken faces with tattered clothes barely hanging from exhausted bodies worn down by devastating life-experiences, sitting on a curb looking like deer stunned in the headlights of complete uncertainty.

Do you look the other way or just not see? Or does the cry of the tear-stained face of a child break your heart enough to grab your attention? Are you prepared to offer some semblance of comfort? – a cup of clean water, a caring conversation, a list of resources available for temporary aid, expressions of hope for a better life, or an acknowledgement that their arrival is a wonderful asset for the community?

Now imagine, instead of a single family, that your community is presented with an entire community of immigrants in need of a fresh start. What would this scale of integration look like, as it presents challenges and issues much broader than most communities have ever considered? Here is where the rubber meets the road. In today’s climate of large-scale immigration, this is an important topic for consideration. How can your spiritual asset of hospitality help inform the attitudes and policies of individuals, communities, and whole nations?

Does the statement of Michal Vasecka, the university sociologist, ring truer now? “We are deeply uninclusive societies. Migration reveals this unpleasant truth about ourselves.” But have we now learned enough about hospitality to be its personal spiritual embodiment and to remove this unhealthy barrier to ourselves and others? Are we open-hearted, willing to listen, and able to welcome newcomers inclusively and warmly, as we steadily plow through the challenges that face both sides, but which when addressed are sure to enliven, enrich, and enhance an integrated community?

Here we may remind ourselves of two fundamental characteristics of hospitality: (1) The core identity of every person is their spiritual nature; and (2) We are all interdependent. These are universal laws that may help us to “love our neighbor as ourselves,” and not to regard anyone as a foreigner, so that they may rather feel they fit into their new surroundings in a lovingly warm and profound way without judgment. This is the true essence and value of hospitality, a spiritual asset that has never been more needed.

Community work can also be a training ground where people can continue to work through their unresolved personal and behavioral issues, which may be nothing more than fear-based. These issues may range from inferiority to superiority, false humility to arrogance, shame to vanity, and others – just be forewarned and therefore, forearmed. For as purveyors of hospitality working through our own personal issues with the spiritual tools and assets we have been learning about within these pages, we may well be able to help others, and certainly should if that door is open to us.

The more that we challenge ourselves through daily practice to be hospitable in all situations, from engaging in friendly conversation in a grocery store line to understanding that there are no strangers, no foreigners, and no limits to how hospitality can be lovingly expressed, the more we will not have to think about it – for we will discover we are being it. That is an amazing point to be highlighted. If hospitality, and if spiritual qualities are effectively assimilated, there is no fatigue associated with them. In fact, just the opposite is true – one is exponentially energized. For hospitality is fully engaging and self-renewing.

OVERARCHING CONCLUSIONS

Now that we have shared our knowledge of the sacred art of hospitality, let us join together at the table of consciousness and reflect on how hospitality fills us with spiritual values that are consistently weaving the story of our lives, both individually and interdependently for our communities. Our great love for humanity, imbued with these well-defined spiritual values, can permeate the atmosphere through ambiance, service, cuisine, entertainment, and protection.

The art of hospitality is being at one with this system of spiritual values and their behavioral qualities. There is practical value in every step learned and practiced. Remember that a warm, smiling face reveals a joy-filled heart and is an attractive force inviting everyone to participate in community.

To effectively cultivate and develop the qualities of hospitality, it needs to become your daily practice. In this daily practice, this spiritual discipline, consciousness is prepared to meet the needs of your neighborhood, your chance encounters with strangers, visitors, and neighbors, and your ability to be of true service for your community as a hospitable presence. Walk the Way of Abraham, practice being the Good Samaritan, discipline your listening skills to hear the dimensionality, the states and stages of consciousness, in conversations and actions to effectively negotiate and navigate the best progressive forward movement for the community as a whole.

The ultimate secret is to know yourself as those spiritual qualities are being cultivated, and then to instill their moral influence into the fabric of our communities, while also deeply and fundamentally understanding all dimensions of the community to help keep its infrastructure strong, sustainable, and safe.

Beyond that, critical thinking is imperative to a healthy community. Continue to test and question your assumptions – to shake out the dead wood and allow healing processes to strengthen your resolve for your community and for yourself. Ask, “What does it take to build a progressively hospitable community?” “Am I living the values that support a progressively hospitable community?” And “Does my life exemplify my highest standards of hospitable behavior?”

A community infused with hospitality changes lives, in ways subtle and sublime. One should not be tricked into believing broadcasts of fear-based thinking, superstition, lack of confidence, limited resources, or falsified information that is meant to keep you imprisoned and frozen in a place of apathy – all this as contrasted with participating in the joy of richly giving that warm smile that melts hearts, sharing a meal that feeds the soul, or offering a heartfelt comment that remains a living presence of comfort, support, and safety.

It is your radical availability to be a hospitable influence within your community that will be a self-nourishing and self-sustaining blessing, with power to bless all those open to receive it.

Contributor Linn Moffett

Editor Bill Berkowitz

Linn Moffett, Chaplain, is also an independent spiritual healer whose work in the hospitality industry spanned more than 15 years throughout four states and the Bahamas, including management of 17 luxury resorts. Her work on nonprofit boards, as a business consultant, and as an educator, writer, and chaplain within seven county jails is well known. Linn is also founder of The Science of Being Institute , dedicated to bringing a spiritually scientific approach to the cultivation of spiritual consciousness .​

Online Resources

1828 M. Shaffer Dictionary. Search word: communion . Search word: virtue .

Bruce Lipton, Ph.D.   is an internationally recognized leader in bridging science and spirit. Stem cell biologist, bestselling author of The Biology of Belief and recipient of the 2009 Goi Peace Award, he has been a guest speaker on hundreds of TV and radio shows, as well as keynote presenter for national and international conferences.​

Charter for Compassion: Communities .

The Encyclopedia of Diderot & d'Alembert Collaborative Translation Project : Entry on "hospitality."

HeartMath.com  was founded by Doc Childre in 1991 to help individuals, organizations and the global community incorporate the heart’s intelligence into their day-to-day experience of life.

History of Samurai and Bushido from the History Channel.

Hospitable Origins by Philologos is an article on the origins of hospitality.

The Neighborhood Movement from SoCe Neighborhood in Wichita, Kansas, nurtures authentic, gifts-focused connections to foster neighbor-centered leadership.

Ngochoni Petals of Africa School .

The Neuroscientific Study of Spiritual Practices by Andrew B. Newberg, from Frontiers in Psychology.

Room at the Table (video) by Carrie Newcomer.

The Science of Being Institute .

With one photo, Europe's refugee debate changes almost overnight from the Christian Scientist Monitor on the refugee crisis.

Print Resources

The Bible. King James Version: Genesis 12-22; Deut 6:5; Lev 19:18; Lev 19:33-34. World English Version: Luke 10:30–34; 36-37.

Kidder, R. M. (1996). How good people make tough choices: Resolving the dilemmas of ethical living. New York: Simon & Schuster.

Pringle, P. (Ed.) (2013). A place at the table: The crisis of 49 million hungry Americans and how to solve it . New York: Public Affairs. (Companion book to the documentary film listed under Online Resources)

Pinoytimate Traditions

Transcending all limits., filipino hospitality: an asset or weakness.

     Accommodation, most commonly known as hospitality, is a trait or behavior common to all Filipinos, portrayed by inspiring liberality and kind disposition displayed to nonnatives and local people alike. Filipinos accept visitors, even outsiders, in a warm and wonderful way, regularly making a special effort to make the guest comfortable. This trait is showed not only by the rich people, but the poor ones as well.

     Filipino hospitality existed even during the pre-Hispanic era. The locals respected the Malays, the main outside pioneers in the nation and shared their nearby ways and innovation. Indeed, even today, when visitors lands in Filipino homes amid mealtime, they are offered whatever is being served for that dinner. More often than not, another dinner is set up to the enjoying of the guest. The Filipino cordiality is best exemplified as to outside visitors, who are treated with the most extreme regard. Filipinos appreciate the organization of remote guests, and most outsiders who have gone by the nation can vouch for the glow and amicability of local people.

Their neighborliness is seen in the Philippines, as well as discovered wherever Filipinos live. Filipino people group the world over help other people change in accordance with the remote nation’s way of life and ways. They frequently help their kindred Filipinos discover asylum and work, opening up their own particular homes to give a transitory home at whatever point important.

     However, did you know that one of the reasons why we were colonized and tricked by the Spaniards is because of this very same trait? YES, it’s true. During that time, Filipinos are too naive to believe that the Spaniards are simply visitors that are searching for the rumored Spice Islands found not too far away from our country. As such, we accommodated them well, being a genuine hospitable race. As a result, we’ve been colonized for more than 3 centuries by the Spaniards. We were impoverished, enslaved, and worked to the bones until we fall to the ground. Like dogs, we were forced to sow the fields day and night, no matter what age bracket you belong to. And most of all, they used and exhausted our natural resources for them to gain more riches and treasures.

     Hospitality has not only enslaved us in the past, but in the present day as well. However, since we got too used to it, we seem to not notice it. For example, Filipinos seem to cater foreigners in a way that exceeds the usual. We might find it good since it helps our tourism, but if we try to see through the other side, we might realize that what we’ve been dong is not merely a way of service, but a form of slavery already. As such, we tend to neglect our own sake during the process.

      After knowing this things, can we still say that hospitality is a positive thing. Reflect and answer this question on your own.

Share this:

Pinoytimatetraditions.

hospitality

assets , culture , filipino , hospitality , philippines , pinoy , pre-Hispanic era , strengths , traditions , weaknesses

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Create a free website or blog at WordPress.com.

• Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
• Subscribe Subscribed
• Copy shortlink
• Report this content
• View post in Reader
• Manage subscriptions
• Collapse this bar

Filipino Hospitality = Compassion & Empathy

People tend to connect with someone they like, not very different from them. In the hospitality industry, workers are obliged to connect with various people, regardless if they do or don’t like them that much. Roman Krznaric, a writer and a professor at The School of Life, argues that in cases such as this, compassion & empathy should be observed by any worker who offers this kind of service. At the heart of transforming hotels and restaurants to excellent hospitality facilities is by rebuilding the culture within its elegant facilities, and this is one that is hinged on compassion & empathy.

Compassion & Empathy in Hospitality

Hotels and other hospitality facilities may elevate their amenities and employ innovative gimmicks to increase revenue. But apart from all those costly efforts, there is a more cost-effective and simpler way to entice customers and boost sales. A focus on customer service, especially to compassion & empathy  among hospitality staff, is a potentially essential factor to attain success in the industry.

Compassion and empathy has always been a secret to hospitality and tourism customer service that is yet to be maximized. In a Gallup survey for the hospitality industry, only one in five guests are fully satisfied with engaging in their visit. Customer satisfaction is a great factor for having returning guests.

Staff compassion & empathy contributes to an enjoyable guest experience. In the age of social media, positive reviews are more likely to be generated. Compassion & empathy has grown to be a more critical skill. Promoting compassion & empathy in every hospitality staff is something that is irreplaceable and sustainable enough to be competitive in the industry.

Compassion, Empathy and Filipino Hospitality Workers

Being empathic as a hospitality worker is by being an effective listener to customers and colleagues, by being trusting through honesty and sincerity, and having an open understanding of differences among every individual person. The ability of an employee to relate to their customers is a significant indicator of quality service.

Filipinos are known in the world as naturally hospitable. They have the reputation to receive guests the warmest, friendliest, and kindest way. Helping others out has been deeply rooted in their culture and this set Filipino hospitality workers apart from many countries.

Filipinos are known for their innate compassion & empathy . Filipino workers were honed to become empathic and compassionate through strict guidance at home, comprehensive training at the academe, and excellent practice in their respective society. It is natural for them to put themselves in the shoes of every customer. Their ability to provide great service is undisputed.

Recruitment of Empathic Staff

Compassion & empathy is a soft skill. Hospitality workers should be capable of sensing the deepest level of feelings and thoughts of others. They must treat every people within their care with dignity. While compassion & empathy is not as easy to gauge as other metrics of performance, every hospitality company should start to prioritize it in every recruitment efforts.

Every hire plays a big part in establishing a culture. This culture predicts the future success of the company. Finding the right employees in the recruitment stage is a crucial part of weeding out toxic weeds from good ones.

Even if how your company values an excellent culture, if you keep on hiring a person with low emotional intelligence in an industry of compassion & empathy, success is hardly attainable and may even affect a company’s reputation. Recruiters for the hospitality sector should be keen in selecting candidates with stellar emotional intelligence and outstanding compassion & empathy.

To be able to compete in the ever-evolving landscape of hospitality, understanding every customer’s inner experience has been even more valuable. Employers, especially in this industry, should start to hunt for people with something extra, those who are empathic to be of service to anyone.

Allow us to help you connect to these empathic and compassionate workers that will surely strengthen your business. Contact us to learn more about our capabilities and how we can work together to meet your employment needs.

Rensol Recruitment & Consulting Email: [email protected] Phone: +63 2 931-0968 Website: https://rensol.com/

ABOUT THE COMPANY: Rensol Recruitment and Consulting, Inc. is the fastest growing recruitment agency in The Philippines. A career consultant that aims to go above and beyond the level of expectations of both the aspirations of the candidates and the dream team standards of employers through providing exceptional opportunities and unparalleled quality-driven recruitment services.

“D” is an experienced Senior Recruiter with a demonstrated history of working in the human resource and talent acquisition industry for 5 years. Her goal is to always employ her knowledge and skills as well as her ability to work well with people to provide the best professional opportunities to her subjects while enriching her own knowledge and gaining new skills on the side. She is skilled in screening, management, and on-boarding great talents for Rensol’s wide range of clients.

Leave a Reply

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

FOR JOBSEEKERS Find Jobs Upload Resume

FOR EMPLOYERS Write us Our licenses

ABOUT US History Careers

RENSOL OFFICES

PHILIPPINES Rensol Recruitment and Consulting, Inc. POEA-028-LB-092216-UL Unit 309, Panorama Building  825 EDSA, South Triangle Quezon City, Philippines Tel: (+632) 82830354 Email: [email protected]

SINGAPORE Renaissance Solutions Pte. Ltd. 3 Shenton Way,  22-08 Shenton House, Singapore-068805  Tel: (+65) 63-467-704 Email: [email protected]

• The Ignatian Way
• Ignatian Organizations
• Jesuit Organizations
• Education, Arts and Sciences
• Social Justice
• Theology and Ecclesiology
• The Spiritual Exercises
• The Daily Examen
• Prayers by St. Ignatius and Others
• Prayer Online
• The What-How-Why of Prayer
• An Approach to Good Choices
• Spiritual Direction
• Discernment of Spirits
• St. Ignatius Loyola
• 16th- and 17th-Century Ignatian Voices
• 18th- and 19th-Century Ignatian Voices
• 20th-Century Ignatian Voices
• Discernment
• Reflections
• Spiritual Exercises

Hospitality is much more than a simple welcome or an offer of food or drink. Hospitality is an attitude of heart that opens us to others and receives them on their own terms. Henri Nouwen speaks of hospitality as a move from hostility to friendship:

“Hospitality, therefore, means primarily the creation of a free space where the stranger can enter and become a friend instead of an enemy. Hospitality is not to change people, but to offer them space where change can take place. . . Hospitality is not a subtle invitation to adopt the lifestyle of the host, but the gift of a chance for the guest to find his own.”

The challenge is to offer friendship without binding the guest and freedom without leaving them alone. “The real host is the one who offers that space where we do not have to be afraid and where we can listen to our own inner voices and find our own personal way of being human.” It means providing space where new life can be found and everyone’s gifts can flourish. To do so, we have to be at home ourselves and be willing to lay down our fears of change. We have to be willing to be vulnerable and open to new ways of doing things. We have to let go of our narcissism and exaggerated individualism.

Hospitality means openness to what guests and strangers bring to us. We receive a revelation from the guest which can change us and enrich our lives and open us to new possibilities and ways of thinking and living.

Hospitality implies attentiveness to the other and to the needs of others, even anticipating their needs. As Gula explains, “The key to hospitality is ‘paying attention.’ . . . When we pay attention, we divest ourselves of self-preoccupation. To be hospitable we have to get out of ourselves and become interested in the other.”

Often our lack of hospitality is simply the failure to notice and acknowledge others and their needs—the needs of the larger world and the needs of those closest to us. Jesus models that attentiveness. He noticed the sick, the excluded, the hungry, those that others passed by. God continues to be attentive. As we contemplate the ministry of Jesus, we are called to heighten our awareness of others so that we can carry on the ministry of Jesus.

—Excerpted from Putting on the Heart of Christ by Gerald M. Fagin, SJ

• Gerald Fagin SJ
• hospitality

RELATED ARTICLES

Hospitality and service, lenten read-along: room for one more.

I am always confused when I read an exhortation to receive someone “on their own terms”. I’m not sure I understand this statement. I don’t think Jesus ever received anyone on THEIR own terms, He received them on His own terms, which were the Father’s terms: Repentance and Obedience to the extent possible. He was never hostile to anyone, but rather, invited everyone to friendship with God. But friendship with God has specific characteristics, requirements, such as humility, gratitude and love. And anyone who refused to enter into that friendship, on God’s terms, where by default, hostile to God. To bring the theoretical into the pragmatic – My sister, who left the church 22 years ago after having an abortion, and is now going through a divorce, is now living with me and my family. My wife and I were adamant that she come live with us (she didn’t really have any other option) and have no doubt we are being hospitable. But we are not receiving her on HER own terms. She is here because she needs a clear and powerful lesson on how to live in friendship with God. Her opinion that Jesus is “one of many spiritually enlightened people”, in the same league as Buddha, the Dali Lama, etc, are completely inconsistent with friendship with God. Jesus emphatically declared that He is the ONLY way to the Father. And we have not, and will not, accept her beliefs. If she requires that we receive her on her terms, accepting her beliefs as legitimate, we can’t accept her on those terms because to do so would be to tacitly support a lie. She is not living with us on her terms, she is living with us on our terms, which, are God’s terms. We pray to Jesus, not Buddha. We go to Mass, not the Hindu shrine. etc. etc. So when I read a statement that we should receive others on their own terms, I interpret that as a mandate to disregard God’s terms of friendship, and pretend their terms are acceptable to God. So can you please help me understand where I’m missing the point?

Hi MarkS, God really sets no terms for love, life, and friendship… Even the Hindu and Muslim are loved by God without asking them to convert, even as He offers them the ability to come closer to Him in our Church. God’s hospitality imposes no conditions, as a matter of fact, God loved us, even while we were still sinners… And so, as Fr Fagin declares ” Hospitality is a posture of openness and welcome that finds a place for ALL God;s people.”.. not only to those who agree with us…

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

DOTMAGIS BLOGGERS

How God Gets Our Attention

What i learned about god through my pet bird, permission to notice, seeing goodness and grace, our ignatian sites.

• IgnatianSpirituality.com ®
• Loyola Press

RECENT COMMENTS

Contact and connect.

• About This Site
• Site Comment Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions
• Permissions

Copyright © 2009-2024 Loyola Press. All rights reserved.

Any copying, redistribution, or retransmission of the contents of this service without the express written consent of Loyola Press is expressly prohibited.

By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy .

Providing Filipino hospitality to every traveler

Take a dip in Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu’s scenic infinity pool Photo source: Robinsons Hotels and Resorts

Filipinos are known for their hospitality. Whether it is a long-lost relative visiting from out of town or foreigners immersing themselves the local community who visits a Filipino home – they are immediately served with cold drinks, a light snack, or even a sumptuous lunch. Every visitor is treated like family, which makes them feel right at home wherever they are in the Philippines.

A true testament to Filipino hospitality is the number of tourists and visitors in the country that have enjoyed their stay, some have found genuine friends and decided to make the Philippines their home.

That is why the genuine Filipino value has inspired Robinsons Hotels and Resorts (RHR), the hospitality arm of JG Summit Holdings subsidiary of Robinsons Land Corporation, to ensure that their guests feel at home during their stay. 

Since its establishment in 2004, Robinsons Hotels and Resorts (RHR) with 26 properties spread out across the country as of January 2022, has focused on its mission to provide true Filipino hospitality.

A home for every type of traveler

Robinsons Hotels and Resorts (RHR) ensures that there is an accommodation option for any type of traveler: whether for leisure, business, family getaway, romantic escape, luxurious staycation, or a budget-friendly stay, the wide-variety of hotel and resort accommodation selection fits what every traveler needs.

For those who are looking for exciting entertainment and activity-filled vacation, a visit to Nustar Resort and Casino is a must. It currently has the region’s largest gaming floor and 35,000 square meters dedicated to retail stores and dining spaces.

Open to the World – Nustar Resort & Casino is located at Kawit Island, South Road Properties, Cebu City, Cebu, and is accessible by sea, air, and land. Photo source: Robinsons Hotels and Resorts

The NUSTAR Resort and Casino also boasts of more than 1,000 rooms in its three hotel towers. The first to open this year is the five-star Fili Hotel, an authentic homegrown Filipino hotel that brings the global charm of Filipino hospitality at the forefront. The second is Nustar Hotel, a luxurious accommodation for the discerning guests and VIP clientele. The third is Grand Summit, a contemporary lifestyle accommodation for work (MICE and Corporate), play (leisure) and celebrations (socials).

Near the Mactan airport, Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort features a distinct Filipino warmth combined with the laid-back vibe of being situated in a beach town. The hotel-resort takes advantage of its unique location on the western side of Mactan Island, where guests can enjoy the sunset while enjoying some cocktails at the lobby lounge, meditating at the Sky Garden, or going for a refreshing dip in the 100-meter infinity pool.

The Westin Manila Sonata Place’s spacious lobby features a signature green wall, reception, concierge, bar, and lounge area. Photo source: Robinsons Hotels and Resorts

For those who want to stay in Metro Manila, you can always check-in at a five-star city hotel like The Westin Manila Sonata Place, scheduled to open in October 2022. Having a wide range of room options — every room is designed to give the much-needed rest after a whole day of business meetings and supports wellness while traveling. Guests can also relax at the in-house spa which allows them to relax their mind and body with a personal sensory experience.

Holiday Inn Manila Galleria’s comfortable and spacious rooms. Photo source: Robinsons Hotels and Resorts

Enjoy a restful respite in Crowne Plaza’s sophisticated club deluxe rooms. Photo source: Robinsons Hotels and Resorts

For those who are looking for shared function rooms, affordable packages for business meetings, conferences, or a large-scale events location, they can visit Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria in Quezon City and Holiday Inn Manila Galleria in Pasig City which is officially managed by the IHG Hotels and Resorts brand. These hotels have a total of 20 meeting rooms with the largest room having a capacity of 1,500 pax. 

Grand Summit Hotel General Santos’ picturesque Lobby Lounge. Photo source: Robinsons Hotels and Resorts

When traveling outside Metro Manila, the newest lifestyle destination in General Santos City is the Grand Summit Hotel, which promises upscale accommodation and curated services. The Grand Summit Ballroom offers the region with luxurious event spaces, ideal for intimate meetings and grand celebrations.

The homegrown brand, Summit Hotels and Resorts (SHR) has since then expanded to different parts of the country and is currently operating a total of seven midscale hotels, including: Summit Circle Cebu, Summit Galleria Cebu, Summit Ridge Tagaytay, Summit Hotel Magnolia, Summit Hotel Tacloban, Summit Hotel Greenhills and the newly opened Summit Hotel Naga, committed to providing travelers with enriching moments, be it business-related or leisure stays.

RHR’s Go Hotels provide valuable stays for guests who just need a comfortable place to spend the night without the frills. Since the opening of the first Go Hotel along EDSA in Mandaluyong in 2010, it now has 15 locations all over the Philippines, including: Otis Manila, Ortigas Center, North EDSA, Airport Road, Timog, Ermita, Puerto Princesa, Dumaguete, Tacloban, Bacolod, Iloilo City, Butuan, Davao City, and Iligan.

Keeping travelers safe

Care and hospitality must include a special attention in terms of health, safety, and security amid the current health situation that is why all Go Hotels and Summit Hotels and Resorts properties implement the Circle of Clean (COC) protocol, which complies with the World Health Organization and Department of Health’s guidelines. COC has put up extra safety measures including: a seamless online check-in, luggage disinfection upon check-in and checkout, COC ambassadors stationed in common areas ready to assist, and a rigorous food handling hygiene. 

The IHG Way of Clean, on the other hand, is implemented at Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria and Holiday Inn Manila Galleria. Both properties follow updated colleague training and certification, sanitation stations are located conveniently, and rooms are kept clutter-free and disinfected.

Dusit Care, which is the protocol at Dusit Thani Mactan Resort, helps ensure the safety of guests. Providing a five-point program that makes sure guests have a peace of mind while on vacation.

More places to feel the warmth of home

Summit Hotel Naga’s festival-inspired guest room – the Penafrancia Suite and the hotel’s cozy lobby. Photo source: Robinsons Hotels and Resorts

Summit Hotel Naga, which is situated at Robinsons Place Naga in Camarines Sur is 10 minutes away from the cathedral and basilica, where hundreds of thousands of devotees flock every Peñafrancia Fiesta, just recently opened.

RHR is looking forward to launching other properties for their homegrown brands: Go Hotels Plus Naga and Go Hotels Plus Tuguegarao. 

Tuguegarao is situated in the northeast Philippines, considered as the major urban center of Cagayan Valley, the city is also dubbed as the “Gateway to Ilocandia and the Cordilleras.” Go Hotels Tuguegarao is ideal for quick stays before travelers venture out to what the rest of the region has to offer.

Go Hotels Plus Tuguegarao’s Superior King Room. Photo source: Robinsons Hotels and Resorts

Nothing beats Filipino hospitality. Robinsons Hotels and Resorts (RHR) is dedicated to providing guests the full experience. Every visitor is treated like family, and all RHR properties offers a home away from home.

For bookings and other inquiries, visit  Robinsons Hotels and Resorts ,  Grand Summit Hotels ,  Summit Hotels ,  GoHotels ,  Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu ,  Holiday Inn  and  Crowne Plaza .

Subscribe to our newsletter!

Disclaimer: Comments do not represent the views of INQUIRER.net. We reserve the right to exclude comments which are inconsistent with our editorial standards. FULL DISCLAIMER

© copyright 1997-2024 inquirer.net | all rights reserved.

This is an information message

We use cookies to enhance your experience. By continuing, you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more here.

Essay on Philippines Culture

Students are often asked to write an essay on Philippines Culture in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Philippines Culture

The land and people.

The Philippines is a Southeast Asian country made up of over 7,000 islands. It’s home to more than 100 million people. Filipinos are known for their friendly nature and warm hospitality. They have a mix of different ethnic groups, each with their own unique customs and traditions.

Language and Communication

Filipinos speak Filipino and English as their official languages. Filipino is mainly based on Tagalog, a local language. They also use many other regional languages. Filipinos are known for their ‘bayanihan’ spirit, which means helping each other in times of need.

Food and Cuisine

Filipino food is a blend of Spanish, Chinese, and native influences. Rice is a staple food. Their famous dish is ‘Adobo’, a meal made with meat, vinegar, and soy sauce. ‘Lechon’, a whole roasted pig, is a special festive dish.

Arts and Music

The Philippines has a rich history of arts and music. Traditional dances like ‘Tinikling’ and ‘Singkil’ tell stories of everyday life and folklore. Filipinos love to sing and are known for their karaoke sessions.

Festivals and Celebrations

Religion and beliefs.

Most Filipinos are Christians, with a majority being Catholic. They celebrate religious holidays like Christmas and Easter with great enthusiasm. Filipinos also believe in spirits and mythical creatures, which are part of their folk tales.

250 Words Essay on Philippines Culture

Introduction to philippines culture.

The Philippines is a country in Southeast Asia known for its rich and diverse culture. This culture is a mix of native and foreign influences from its history, including Spanish, American, and Asian cultures.

Language and Literature

Filipino and English are the official languages of the Philippines. Filipino, based on Tagalog, is the national language. The Philippines is also home to over 170 other languages. Literature is a vital part of their culture, with famous works like the epic “Florante at Laura” by Francisco Balagtas.

Filipinos are known for their love of arts and music. Traditional arts include weaving, pottery, and carving. Music is often used in festivals and celebrations. The “Kundiman” is a popular type of love song.

Festivals, or “fiestas,” are important in Filipino culture. These events celebrate history, religion, and local customs. The “Sinulog Festival” in Cebu and the “Ati-Atihan Festival” in Aklan are famous examples.

In conclusion, the culture of the Philippines is a colorful mix of various influences. It reflects the country’s history, diversity, and the warm spirit of its people. It is a culture that values community, creativity, and a love for life.

500 Words Essay on Philippines Culture

The Philippines is a Southeast Asian country known for its rich culture and traditions. Its culture is a blend of indigenous customs and foreign influences from Spain, China, America, and other Asian countries. This makes it a unique and vibrant place.

Food in the Philippines

Filipino food is a mix of flavors from different cultures. It includes rice, noodles, meat, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. One popular dish is ‘Adobo’, made from vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and meat. ‘Lechon’, a whole roasted pig, is often served at big celebrations. Filipinos also love sweet treats like ‘Halo-Halo’, a dessert made with crushed ice, sweet fruits, and beans.

Arts and Crafts

Filipinos are known for their creativity. They make beautiful handicrafts like woven baskets, mats, and furniture from bamboo and rattan. Filipinos also have a rich tradition of dance and music. Folk dances like ‘Tinikling’ and ‘Singkil’ tell stories about daily life and history.

Family and Social Structure

Family is very important in Filipino culture. Families often live together in large groups, including grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Respect for elders is a key value. Filipinos also have a strong sense of community. They often help each other in times of need, a practice known as ‘Bayanihan’.

Most Filipinos are Christian, with a large number being Catholic. They have a deep faith and often attend church. Many celebrations and festivals are based on religious events. Filipinos also believe in spirits and supernatural beings, which are part of folk beliefs.

The culture of the Philippines is a beautiful mix of traditions, beliefs, and influences from around the world. It is a culture that values family, community, faith, and celebration. Whether it’s their tasty food, vibrant festivals, or warm hospitality, the Filipino culture is truly unique and captivating.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Examples of Hospitality in The Odyssey by Homer Essay (Review)

• To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
• As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
• As a template for you assignment

Hospitality in The Odyssey: Introduction

Greek hospitality in the odyssey, why is hospitality important in the odyssey, example of hospitality in the odyssey: calypso vs. circe, how is hospitality shown in “the odyssey” odysseus home vs. poseidon’s shipwreck, examples of bad hospitality in “the odyssey”, works cited.

In Homeric poem “The Odyssey,” we are treated to an account of the story of Odysseus as he tries to make his way back to Ithaca after successfully aiding the Greeks in conquering the city of Troy. While the tale has various mythical and magical motifs in the form of Gods, Goddesses, nymphs, witches, and magic; one of the most interesting and a rather unusual aspect of the story was the astounding level of generosity shown to Odysseus through various parts of the story (Grabek, 96). In this essay, examples of hospitality in “The Odyssey” shall be explored.

It can be stated that if it were not for the multiple instances where Odysseus was accepting the generosity of various strangers, he would long ago have been able to reach home instead of being delayed for so long.

An examination of other forms of ancient Greek literature reveals that the concept of Greek hospitality (xenia) towards guests is firmly embedded in the belief that all guests are under the protection of the Gods. Zeus himself was said to be the benefactor of guests who entered the households of strangers in foreign lands and that to turn away a guest would be the same as insulting Zeus himself (Grabek, 96).

Other interpretations show the belief that guests are said to be tests sent by the Gods themselves and that various guests asking for shelter within households could be Gods in disguise (Grabek, 96).

One particular piece of Greek mythology supporting this claim is the story of Baucis and Philemon. In it, readers see a situation wherein Zeus tired of eating ambrosia on Olympus descended to the Phrygian countryside along with Hermes to test the generosity of the people. Disguised as poor travelers, they knocked on hundreds of doors. However, they were always rebuffed, and the doors slammed into their faces.

It was only when they encountered the dilapidated cabin of Baucis and Philemon that they were accorded with the highest degree of courtesy from the unfortunate couple. The end of the story was the complete flooding of the Phrygian countryside with all that turned them away dying as a result, with Baucis and Philemon being honored for their generosity by being made into priests of a new temple on top of a hill that escaped the destruction of their neighbors.

As a result of similar tales, ancient Greek society at the time had a rather generous predisposition towards guests, often showing them the most fabulous hospitality that one can muster (Grabek, 96). It must be noted, though, that this hospitality is not the result of any ingrained cultural predilection towards generosity. Still, rather, it can be interpreted as being the result of fear towards the wrath of the Gods (Melisa et al., 1).

Another interesting factor to consider is the concept of the “guest-host relationship” in ancient Greek culture and how it plays a factor in the theme of hospitality in “ The Odyssey” (Melisa et al., 1).

The concept of the guest-host relationship is firmly embedded in the method in which hospitality is given and how it is received. As stated earlier, it was shown that improper hospitality towards guests had the effect of dire punishment. On the other hand, it was also revealed that proper generosity resulted in a significant number of blessings (Melisa et al., 1).

Hospitality is one of the epic poem’s main themes. There are plenty of examples of hospitality in The Odyssey. In particular, three distinct parallels can be singled out:

• Calypso’s imprisonment of Odysseus vs. Circe’s offering of hospitality and love;
• Alcinous/Phaeacians being helpful by trying to get Odysseus home vs. Poseidon’s shipwreck;
• Penelope’s hospital reception of Odysseus disguised as beggar vs. the suitor’s bad treatment/mocking of him.

These three cases show the concept of the guest-host relationship and what the result of improper/proper hospitality in both cases was. It can be stated that while it was hospitality that enabled Odysseus to finally overcome various obstacles and get back home, the concept of hospitality firmly embedded in the guest-host relationship that caused several of his adventures and was one of the primary reasons behind him getting delayed.

In the first parallels, there are two distinct situations presented, namely the imprisonment of Odysseus and the reception shown to him by Circe. In the case of Calypso, Odysseus was found by the sea nymph after his ship was wrecked due to the fury of Poseidon. After which he spent seven years in the captivity of the sea nymph due to her falling madly in love with Odysseus and wanting him to become her mate. Under the guest-host relationship concept, Calypso is playing the part of an excellent host.

Even though her father is Poseidon, she still chose to aid Odysseus when she found him washed up on the shore of her island, Ogygia. In this case, Calypso successfully fulfills the first aspect of the guest-host relationship in that she accepts a guest that has come to her home in need.

While Odysseus may be criticized in various texts due to his actions with Calypso wherein he did not attempt to immediately escape after getting better, the fact remains that Odysseus was fulfilling the second half of the guest-host relationship. He was adequately and respectfully receiving the gift of hospitality that was given.

For the ancient Greeks, the concept of hospitality does not just extend to how it was given but rather in the way it is received and the inherent consequences of the reception. For example, in the case of the island of Thrinacia, where Odysseus and his men were allowed to land by the God Apollo, various members of the crew violated the guest-host relationship by hunting the cattle of Apollo (Greek life, 1).

The result was the death of all crew members except Odysseus, who survived the resulting shipwreck. Thus, on the part of the host, violating the guest-host relationship by not being open and friendly to guests results in the wrath of the Gods descending upon him. However, the reverse is also true wherein guests that do not adhere to proper mannerisms behind the guest-host relationship will also receive some form of misfortune.

The consequences behind the reception of hospitality are one of the driving factors behind the reason why Odysseus had to stay with Calypso for seven years. He did not want to break the guest-host relationship by just leaving when it was apparent that Calypso was in love with him, especially when taking into consideration the fact that she had saved his life.

In other words, it can be seen that for the Greeks, there is a specific code of conduct that must be done when it comes to hospitality or else there would be dire consequences (Greek life, 1). Homer further emphasizes this point in the case of Odysseus and Circe, in this particular part of the Odyssey, we are presented with the witch Circe who kept on turning all guests who came to her island into pigs.

In this case, instead of Odysseus himself being turned into a farm animal, he is warned by Hermes of what Circe was doing to his crew and informed him about taking the drug moly to prevent the effects of Circe’s magic. The result was Odysseus brandishing his sword at Circe, threatening to kill her. The reason why Hermes helped Odysseus was that Circe was violating the code of conduct of hospitality, which even the Gods themselves must abide by.

Circe, powerful though she was, was not exempted from this rule and as such, was taught a lesson by the Gods to teach her to be more hospitable to guests. What is being implied here is that the rules regarding hospitality always have consequences no matter who you are. This particular concept will be more apparent later on as I elaborate more on the various parallels in this paper.

Unlike the previous parallel, where, in both cases, Odysseus had to spend a significant portion of time with both Circe and Calypso, Odysseus was able to get home through the Phaeacians’ help. The basis of this story lies in Poseidon’s destruction of the raft of Odysseus and his subsequent shipwreck on the island of Phaecians.

Once more, we can see the guest-host relationship wherein Nausicaa, the daughter of Alcinous, encounters Odysseus and encourages him to seek the hospitality of her father. Once again, we see the guest-host link at work wherein Odysseus is openly greeted by Alcinous and is treated rather well. Odysseus, on the other hand, similar to the cases of Calypso and Circe, once more plays the part of a guest who graciously receives the hospitality of Alcinous.

Unlike the cases involving Circe and Calypso, the culmination of the stay of Odysseus with the Phaeacians results in him being able to leave rather quickly for his home in Ithaca through their assistance. The reason behind this is connected to the concept of the guest-host relationship and the consequences behind the reception of hospitality. In the case of Circe and Calypso, both women did not want Odysseus to leave since they were both in love with him.

This presents a problem for Odysseus since he must also be receptive to the wishes of the host. As a result, his time in both cases gets extended beyond what he had initially planned for since he did not want to become an ungracious guest due to the possible repercussions this might bring him as a result of the guest-host concept.

While the Odyssey does take the concept of the guest-host relationship to an absolute extreme is does portray an accurate enough depiction of the idea utilized in ancient Greek society (Shaw & Bloom, 41). Thus, it is also considered one of the examples of hospitality in “The Odyssey.” It could be stated that the reason why Homer chose to depict the story of Odysseus in such a way was that he wanted to present his views regarding the system itself, which places an unnecessary burden on both the host and the guest (Shaw & Bloom, 41).

In the case of the Phaeacians, particularly Alcinous, after hearing the tale of the travels of Odysseus, it was the wish of the people present there to help him reach Ithaca. As a result, Odysseus complying once more with the concept of the guest-host relationship goes along with the wishes of the Phaeacians to help send him home.

In this particular case, it was the wish to help Odysseus by the Phaeacians that was the facilitating factor in enabling him to go home. It can be assumed that if the king wanted to keep Odysseus around instead of helping him go home, it can be expected that the time Odysseus spent away from home would have increased to a certain degree.

On the other half of this parallel is the case of Poseidon and Odysseus involving Poseidon’s antagonist attitude towards Odysseus involving the shipwreck before Odysseus was able to reach the Phaeacians. It must be noted that as God of the sea, the various seas that Odysseus traversed were, in fact, part of the home of Poseidon.

When he blinded the Cyclops Polyphemus, who also happened to be a son of Poseidon, this constituted a violation on the part of Odysseus towards the concept of the guest-host relationship, which inevitably caused him to be shipwrecked due to Poseidon’s wrath. From this, it is further emphasized that violations of the guest-host link can and will result in an ignominious end. The reason behind my emphasis on this particular concept can be seen in the parallelism involving Odysseus and the ill-tempered guests at this home.

In the conclusion of the Odyssey, we see Odysseus returning to Ithaca. However, instead of immediately presenting himself to his wife, Athena first disguises him as a beggar for him to evaluate what has happened to his home while he was away. The result of this action is that when he entered the home looking for food and shelter, he was immediately accosted by the various suitors who were there berating him, mocking him, and otherwise treating him in a deplorable manner.

What must be taken into account in this situation is that Odysseus himself is the master of the household that the guests are in. Even though they are unaware of it, treating him in such a manner goes entirely against the guest-host relationship. Another factor to consider is that in several parts of the Odyssey, it is shown that Penelope, the wife of Odysseus, has often asked the various suitors to leave. However, most of them stayed despite her wishes and even abused their privilege while staying at her house.

This instance shows another violation of the guest-host relationship wherein the guests do not follow the wishes of the host. Throughout the story, it is evident that one of the reasons why Odysseus took so long to reach Ithaca was because he adamantly tried to follow the guest-host relationship (Melisa et al., 1).

As mentioned earlier, violators of the guest-host relationship often wind up in an ignominious end. In this particular situation, all of the suitors at the house wound up dead. However, there is no punishment coming from the Gods for the actions of Odysseus. In fact, in some versions of the story, Athena herself intervenes to save Odysseus from the anger of the parents of the various suitors.

The reason behind this is the fact that the suitors themselves violated the guest-host relationship by not treating the host with respect and not following through with the host’s wishes, as such, this justifies their slaying.

In the other half of the parallelism, Penelope treated Odysseus, who looked like a beggar with a great deal of kindness and compassion following the tenets of the guest-host relationship. Earlier it was mentioned that the concept of openly receiving guests was because the Greeks thought that guests were a form of the test from the Gods because they never knew if the person that they were treating was a God in disguise (Steward & Bloom, 187).

Similar to the story of Baucis and Philemon, the disguised person, in this case, was not a God but Odysseus, but it was also a test similar to the case of Baucis and Philemon (Steward & Bloom, 187). The result was that Penelope was able to receive the reward, her husband being alive and well.

Grabarek, Daryl, Walter Minkel, and Patricia D. Lothrop. “Understanding The Odyssey A Student Casebook to Issues, Sources, and Historical Documents/A Companion to Homer’s Odyssey (Book).” School Library Journal 49.12 (n.d.): 96. Literary Reference Center . EBSCO. Web.

Greek Life. “ Greek Life as Depicted in Homer’s Odyssey .” Ancient Greece ., 2004: 1. Web.

Melisa, Cory et al. “The Value of Hospitality.” Why So Hospitable . Union.edu, N. A.:1. Web.

Shaw, Thomas., and Harold Bloom. “T. E. Shaw on Homer’s Temperament.” Bloom’s Notes Homer’s Odyssey (1988): 41-43. Literary Reference Center . EBSCO. Web.

Stewart, Douglas J., and Harold Bloom. “The Disguised Guest.” Bloom’s Modern Critical Views: Homer (1986): 187-204. Literary Reference Center . EBSCO. Web.

• Short Summary
• Summary & Analysis
• Literary Devices and Symbols
• Questions & Answers
• Homer: Biography
• Round and Flat Characters in "Trifles" by S. Glaspell's
• Ethnicity Issues in William Shakespeare’s Titus Adronicus
• The Ghosts in Homer’s The Odyssey
• “The Odyssey”: The Relationship Between the Monstrous and the Human
• Monstrous and Human Relationship in “The Odyssey”
• A Play "Trifles" by Susan Glaspell
• Dramatic Irony in the "Othello" by William Shakespeare
• Character of Iago in "Othello" by Shakespeare Analysis
• Shakespeare’s Othello, the Moor of Venice
• Oedipus the King
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2018, September 17). Examples of Hospitality in The Odyssey by Homer. https://ivypanda.com/essays/hospitality-in-the-odyssey/

"Examples of Hospitality in The Odyssey by Homer." IvyPanda , 17 Sept. 2018, ivypanda.com/essays/hospitality-in-the-odyssey/.

IvyPanda . (2018) 'Examples of Hospitality in The Odyssey by Homer'. 17 September.

IvyPanda . 2018. "Examples of Hospitality in The Odyssey by Homer." September 17, 2018. https://ivypanda.com/essays/hospitality-in-the-odyssey/.

1. IvyPanda . "Examples of Hospitality in The Odyssey by Homer." September 17, 2018. https://ivypanda.com/essays/hospitality-in-the-odyssey/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Examples of Hospitality in The Odyssey by Homer." September 17, 2018. https://ivypanda.com/essays/hospitality-in-the-odyssey/.

IvyPanda uses cookies and similar technologies to enhance your experience, enabling functionalities such as:

• Basic site functions
• Ensuring secure, safe transactions
• Secure account login
• Remembering account, browser, and regional preferences
• Remembering privacy and security settings
• Analyzing site traffic and usage
• Personalized search, content, and recommendations
• Displaying relevant, targeted ads on and off IvyPanda

Please refer to IvyPanda's Cookies Policy and Privacy Policy for detailed information.

Certain technologies we use are essential for critical functions such as security and site integrity, account authentication, security and privacy preferences, internal site usage and maintenance data, and ensuring the site operates correctly for browsing and transactions.

Cookies and similar technologies are used to enhance your experience by:

• Remembering general and regional preferences
• Personalizing content, search, recommendations, and offers

Some functions, such as personalized recommendations, account preferences, or localization, may not work correctly without these technologies. For more details, please refer to IvyPanda's Cookies Policy .

To enable personalized advertising (such as interest-based ads), we may share your data with our marketing and advertising partners using cookies and other technologies. These partners may have their own information collected about you. Turning off the personalized advertising setting won't stop you from seeing IvyPanda ads, but it may make the ads you see less relevant or more repetitive.

Personalized advertising may be considered a "sale" or "sharing" of the information under California and other state privacy laws, and you may have the right to opt out. Turning off personalized advertising allows you to exercise your right to opt out. Learn more in IvyPanda's Cookies Policy and Privacy Policy .