Why do you need a charcoal for a hookah?

Question

I realize that you have to use one, but my friend suggested simply lighting the tobacco in the bowl. Why would that not work?

Answer 1

Lighting the shisha with an open flame will produce a harsh, smoky flavored shisha.  Not very pleasant I assure you.  The coal allows the shisha to slowly and evenly burn for a smooth and flavorful smoke.

Answer 2

A hookah is bong. You need something to boil the water.

Answer 3

Basically, the charcoal allows you to slowly control the burn. The tobacco in the bowl is usually fairly wet, and won't burn easily unless you apply heat (from the charcoal) near it to dry it out, and then it will eventually catch fire.