Tahtib is an ancient art, possibly dating back to the 2nd millennium BC. Engraved tomb walls at the archaeological site of Beni Hasan on the eastern bank of the Nile appear to show stick fighting practice resembling Tahtib. Although modern Tahtib practice tends to be friendly (and there is a heavily stylized Saidi form that has been incorporated with belly dancing practice), traditionally Tahtib matches could turn earnest very quickly and the stick was often used to settle disputes and affairs of honour amongst rural families.
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