Exploring the Weirdest Cultural Norms from Across the Globe

Have you ever wondered how our diverse world celebrates cultures and traditions? Just like different people, countries and societies also have their unique set of customs and practices that may seem strange to outsiders. From eating live octopus to walking in the coffin to bring good fortune, some countries have cultural norms that have stood the test of time.

In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the weirdest cultural norms across the globe. Let’s dive in!

The Coffin Walk, Madagascar

Madagascar, the island nation in the Indian Ocean, is a land of vibrant culture and tradition. And one of its most bizarre traditions is the Coffin Walk. For the Malagasy people, one’s funeral is seen as a chance to strengthen the bond between the living and the dead. As part of the funeral, the family of the deceased will carry the body in a coffin, but before the burial, they will circle the tomb three times while walking in the coffin. The belief behind this tradition is that it will bring good luck and help the deceased’s spirit find peace in the afterlife.

The Haka Dance, New Zealand

The Haka Dance is a traditional Maori war dance that is performed before battle. This cultural norm has now become an important part of the Kiwi’s (New Zealanders) cultural identity. It’s performed regularly during major sporting events by the All Blacks, the New Zealand rugby team. The dance serves as a way of intimidating the opposition and shining a light on Maori culture. A powerful display of strength and resilience, the Haka Dance might be weird to outsiders, but to the Maori people, it’s a significant aspect of their heritage.

Live Octopus, South Korea

While most of us are familiar with Korean barbeque and kimchi, there’s one delicacy that might make us cringe. Live octopus, or sannakji, is a popular dish in South Korea. The dish consists of small live octopus pieces that are eaten raw, complete with its tentacles. While many Koreans enjoy the freshness and chewiness that comes with each bite, others have died from choking on a slippery tentacle or two. Eating live animals might be considered barbaric in most parts of the world, but in Korea, it’s a tradition that has been passed down for centuries.

Mursi Lip Plate, Ethiopia

For centuries, the Mursi tribe in Ethiopia has been known for its unique tradition of lip plates. Young women of the tribe must undergo a ritual that involves cutting their lower lip and inserting a clay or wooden plate. The larger the plate, the more beautiful the woman is considered. This tradition is seen as a symbol of beauty and wealth in the tribe and is also believed to deter potential kidnappers and slave traders. While this tradition might be perceived as bizarre or even painful, it holds significant cultural value among the Mursi tribe.

Conclusion

These are just a few examples of the most unusual and fascinating cultural norms across the globe. Although many of these traditions might seem strange or even barbaric to us, they hold immense cultural value and heritage for different communities. By exploring and respecting these cultural norms and traditions, we can learn to appreciate the incredible diversity of our world.