ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the description and analysis of one Sulha process, from the infraction that created the dispute through the progression of events all the way to the dispute's resolution and the Sulha ceremony that marked that resolution. There are some descriptions of Sulha ceremonies in the literature, but there is no comprehensive description and analysis of the entire Sulha process from infraction to ceremony. The reason is simple: Sulha processes may take years to conclude, and while they proceed, all interactions between the Jaha and disputants, witnesses, local dignitaries and other affiliated persons are strictly confidential and barred to outsiders. Sulha ceremonies are the only part of the process that is opened to the public at large. Yet, although ceremonies are important and worthy of studying, they provide only a partial perspective on the process. A thorough understanding of the process requires examining it in its entirety from inception to conclusion.
