Hizri 

            A figure in Albanian mythology, Hizri disguises themselves as a traveling beggar.

Going door to door, his purpose is to test the generosity of homeowners. If they do not share their food or money with him, he puts a spell on the household, thus cursing its inhabitants. If they are welcoming and hospitable, he blesses the household.

            This directly ties into the popular adage amongst Albanians, “bukë, kripë e zemër,” which speaks to our fondness for hosting and welcoming people into our homes, especially in times of need, regardless of who they are or how little we have to offer. 

            Whether it is bread and salt (bukë e kripë) or just our company and the safety of our hearth (zemër which literally translates to heart), Albanians make it a point to be welcoming and accommodating to their guests.

            This was especially evident during WWII, when Albania’s Jewish population increased eleven-fold between 1939 and 1945, as Albanians protected Jews during this time. So much importance is placed on guest right culturally that during this time, a man in the town of Gjakova, bordering Albania and Kosova, was said to have turned his own son over to the Nazis, rather than his Jewish house guest, whom he swore to shelter and protect.

            This is an extreme example, of course, but the residual effects of “Hizri” are evident. Understanding the superstitions and culture behind this man’s sacrifice, we are able to see how guest right has evolved over time, from its anthropomorphic roots to today.