In Karak, where stories lean against the mountains and echoes of old voices still resonate through alleys and homes, the launch of the traditional song “Bin Hajhouj” as part of the “Mersal” project felt like a conscious revival of a memory that never disappeared—only waiting to be heard again.
اضافة اعلان
The event was not merely a musical gathering, but a cultural moment raising questions of identity and opening the door to reinterpreting Jordanian heritage—not as a finished past, but as a living, evolving state.
Held at the historic “Kaifeen” café, a space rich with the spirit of time, the venue itself became part of the narrative, adding depth and authenticity to the experience.
The evening was moderated by engineer Hussein Sarayrah, who emphasized that heritage is not static, but a living entity that requires thoughtful engagement. He highlighted the ability of contemporary artistic projects to preserve authenticity while giving heritage new life.
Rakan Shweihat, founder of the “Mersal” project, revisited its beginnings with the song “Abu Shweihah,” which marked the project’s launch and set its direction toward reviving Jordanian folk music. He explained that the project goes beyond reproducing songs, aiming instead to reinterpret them, uncover their cultural and human meanings, and present them in ways that resonate with new generations while preserving their identity.
In one of the most impactful moments, Nujud Khaled Al-Majali, granddaughter of the lyricist and daughter of Khaled Hajhouj, shared the true story behind the song. She reflected on her father’s character and the emotional depth conveyed in the lyrics written by Hajzah bint Aayed Al-Shawahin, rooted in a significant historical period. This human dimension elevated the song beyond art, turning it into a living emotional document.
Gheed Habashneh, owner of “Kaifeen,” welcomed attendees, noting that the venue—one of the oldest houses in Karak—enhanced the authentic heritage atmosphere of the event.
When singer Lin Al-Shannaq took the stage, heritage transformed into a living voice. Her performance went beyond technical delivery, offering a deeply emotional interpretation that gave the lyrics renewed meaning. In “Bin Hajhouj,” she successfully balanced the spirit of traditional melody with modern musical arrangement, creating a piece that connects with contemporary audiences without losing its original authenticity.
As the lyrics flowed, the song became an emotional expression of longing, pride, and belonging—evoking the image of a person deeply connected to their land and memory, no matter the distance.
The work—written by Hajzah bint Aayed Al-Shawahin, rooted in folklore, rearranged by Joseph Demerjian, and performed by Lin Al-Shannaq—stands as a vivid example of how heritage can endure, not only through preservation but through renewal.
From “Abu Shweihah” to “Bin Hajhouj,” the “Mersal” project does more than present songs—it rebuilds the relationship with memory, giving heritage a new opportunity to be heard, understood, and lived.
In a time when voices often sound alike, this project serves as a reminder that heritage has a voice that never fades—as long as there are those who believe in it and bring it back to life.
