Xenia

/ˈzeniə/ noun

Definition

In ancient Greek culture, the concept of hospitality and generous treatment of guests, or a gift given as a sign of friendship.

Etymology

From ancient Greek 'ξενία' (hospitality), from 'xenos' (guest, stranger). This word represents a core value in Greek society where treating strangers well was a religious and moral obligation.

Kelly Says

Ancient Greeks believed that gods sometimes disguised themselves as travelers to test whether people practiced xenia—so refusing hospitality to a stranger could literally be rejecting a deity in disguise!

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