2006-06-07 13:19:31 · 7 answers · asked by Drunk on that Love... 2 in Society & Culture ➔ Mythology & Folklore
I read somewhere a long time ago that the wives or concubines of very fat sultans (or equivalent) performed the art in sex, using its precise pelvic movements to pleasure their incapable husbands. Probably used by prostitutes too. It sounds true, and bellydancing has been banned in certain places! Here is a fascinating article on its history; some allusions have been made to the above:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bellydancing
2006-06-07 14:47:42 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 1⤋
I believe it came from somewhere in the Middle East, possibly Persia. It may have been used as a fertility ritual since the dance is mostly made up of "feminine" movements like use of the hips and moving the arms like snakes. It's always had an air of mystery, but if you ever get the chance to see real-life belly-dancers, do so. And possibly ask the instructor or leader about the history if you get the chance.
2006-06-07 23:51:58 · answer #2 · answered by Silver Snake 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The art of belly dancing originated from the Middle East and other Arabic influenced regions many centuries ago. It was popularised in western countries in the late 1890's.
2006-06-07 21:42:01 · answer #3 · answered by bashah1939 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Most of the belly dancers I know say it was developed to keep from loosing so many women to child birth. The movements build up child bearing and birthing muscles. Makes sense to me and have heard it often.
2006-06-07 20:30:52 · answer #4 · answered by Myr 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It was used as a method of entertainment for ancient Turkish sultans.
2006-06-07 20:26:34 · answer #5 · answered by kojackamus 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Akon.
2006-06-14 10:54:39 · answer #6 · answered by LameSkull 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
it came from the Orientals, but the Arabs made it what it is today!
:)
2006-06-11 00:10:05 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋