There is an assumption in western countries that belly dancing is an inappropriate and scandalous activity. This assumption is about as far from true and you could get. Many people will make unfair comments about belly dancing when they learn of young girls or teenagers performing this dance. It is a wonder why people have such a negative feeling about this art form.

The Costumes

It might be the costumes that are worn that have given the dance such a bad reputation. The costumes of some belly dancers are designed to be sensuous and sexy, but that is not true for all. Some dancers wear costumes that cover their entire body while they dance. They usual costume that is worn consists of a bra and skirt with embellishments added for decoration. In Egypt women are not allowed to show their skin, so many will wear full body suits underneath their costume to adhere to the law.

Even if a belly dancer doesn’t wear a full body suit under her costume the reality of the costume is not really as bad as many would have you believe. The more explicit costumes are a bra and skirt combination. Most of the women’s bodies are covered by this costume. It is a great deal more modest than a bikini and bikinis are not considered to be scandalous.

The History of Belly Dancing

So we have determined that the costumes should not be a source of scandal, what about the history? The origins of belly dancing is still unknown today. What we do know about this ancient art form is that it is a dance for women. It has been a dance that was performed for women by other women. Mother’s teach their daughters this ancient ritual and it has been passed down through the generations. In the past the only way a man could view belly dancing was if another man was performing. The dance has been considered a sacred ritual for women.

It might be the goddess worship aspect of belly dancing that has made it so controversial. The worship of the gods and goddesses has been deemed an immoral and indecent act. It might seem as though belly dancing was against men in general because of its practice for women. It is an art form that empowers women and embraces their inner strengths.

It is common for feminine worship and empowerment to be hidden and pushed down by society. In a world where women are supposed to be man like in their actions and behavior, something that explores the true femininity might be a problem. This beautiful and graceful art form should not be viewed as something scandalous or evil. It should be displayed for the celebration of woman that it is.