

Three individuals undergo the Bisha test, where licking a piece of white-hot metal determines their truthfulness in a Bedouin legal system.
Synopsis
Three individuals undergo the Bisha test, where licking a piece of white-hot metal determines their truthfulness in a Bedouin legal system.
Synopsis
Abed al-Aziz stands accused of betraying his tribe to the Israeli Secret Service, while Aql al-Atrash faces murder charges, and Sa’ed from Fanara is implicated in adultery. Their fates hinge on the Bisha, a traditional truth test central to the Bedouin legal system known as haq al-orfi. During this ordeal, each accused person licks a piece of white-hot metal. A burnt tongue indicates guilt, while an unscathed tongue serves as proof of innocence.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- See the Bisha test in action.
- Meet Abed al-Aziz and his tribe's struggles.
- Find out how truth is determined in Bedouin culture.
Did You Know
- Abed al-Aziz is suspected of betraying his tribe to the Israeli Secret Service.
- Aql al-Atrash is facing a murder charge.
- Sa’ed from Fanara is accused of adultery, putting his life at risk.
Perfect For
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Bisha test?
The Bisha is a test used in the Bedouin legal system to detect the truth by having accused individuals lick a piece of white-hot metal.
What happens if someone burns their tongue during the Bisha test?
A burnt tongue is considered proof that the individual is lying.
Who are the three individuals involved in the Bisha test in the documentary?
The three individuals are Abed al-Aziz from the Judean Desert, Aql al-Atrash from the Negev, and Sa’ed from the Egyptian village of Fanara.
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