History of Hookah - a quick look

Water pipe,'arjīlah, nargilah, nārgil, lulava... All the same device, all from different cultures.

The tradition of hookah dates back to the mid-1500s so it's seen a few changes in its time! Invented by Abul-Fath Gilani, an Iranian physician of Akbar, the hookah spread to Persia and then beyond. Akbar the Great (1542 - 1605) was introduced to tobacco by way of Roman Catholic missionaries, who brought the newest commodity from the Americas with them. The hookah, then later molasses mixed with other flavorings, helped to "purify" the smoke and make it pleasant to the palate. This quickly became a luxury of the aristocracy.

But this is only one version of the story, the origin is unknown. Trade routes were the internet of the time period, so ideas spread widely and rapidly.

Fast forward a few hundred years and the tradition of smoking hookah became a time to slow down and enjoy the people around you. Passing the hose around, business would be discussed, life would be pondered and community strengthened. Hospitality being the critical component of hookah.

Come join us at the Michigan Renaissance Festival in Holly, Michigan, to experience hookah while immersed in the whimsy and joy the festival is rooted in.