Stick fighting is still regarded as an art, for example the martial arts of escrima, kali and kenjutsu (use of bokken) all rely on stick skills. In Egypt, it developed just after the twentieth dynasty. This combat system has saved not only Egypt but also Jersualem during attacks from Assyria.
Egyptians still enjoy practicing the art of stick fencing in the style of Tahtib. Demonstrations may be seen at wedding ceremonies and also at festivals and during Ramadan. As seen in African martial arts, the hanging guard and interaction from overhead is a large portion of the bout. Each fight has a set of drummers and this is said to enhance the flow of energy through the atmosphere.
Historically fighting with the stick was seen as a good way for settling arguments between different families in the rural areas of Egypt. Asa or Asaya or Assaya is the term used to signify ‘stick’. It is usually just over one and a quarter metres of length. A longer stick over three and a half metres of length is used for Horse Stepping, which is the term used when this martial art is practiced from horseback. When performed correctly the air can be heard to be displaced by the vigorous movements of the stick.
The stick is said to be a symbol of the phallus. It is therefore historically a masculine martial art. However these days Tahtib can be performed by women. The dancing form may involve women dressed as men or women may perform the female version (el Assaya). Elements of this are seen in belly dancing. The women use seductive poses and a thinner, lighter stick with a hooked end.