Author: Jayson

On Nigeria and Egypt: An Interview with the Imam and the Pastor

Post author By Jayson
Post date August 28, 2011
No Comments on On Nigeria and Egypt: An Interview with the Imam and the Pastor

The Imam and the Pastor, Mohamed Ashafa and James Wuye, are a Nigerian Muslim and Christian who have worked tirelessly for the sake of peace and reconciliation between their countrymen. Formerly bitter enemies in armed conflict, in which Wuye lost his hand and Ashafa’s spiritual mentor was murdered, they have now forgiven each other. Furthermore, they use both their personal example and their Early Warning and Early Response monitoring system to limit the escalation of violence, as is sadly common in Nigeria.

Though their focus is at home, the Imam and the Pastor have traveled the world, helping to solve conflict and spread their message abroad. It was in this effort they were invited to Egypt by the Center for Arab West Understanding (CAWU), presenting two workshops in Alexandria and Cairo.

During the Alexandria workshop they were interviewed by Salwa Uthman of Alexandria Magazine, at which CAWU was also present. The following records an important glimpse into Nigerian society, the origins of conflict, and their view on the state of Egypt, post-revolution.

Alexandria Magazine: Please give us an overview of Muslim-Christian conflict in Nigeria.

Wuye: During the 1980s the Israeli-Palestinian conflict greatly affected Nigeria, especially in the schools. This trend was amplified by religious leaders who would misrepresent their holy books, which then encouraged people to descend into conflict.

Recently, politicians have appropriated religion into their campaigns, asking people to elect them on the basis of their religious affiliation. Relations have been damaged, to the extent that over 100,000 people have lost their lives in this misunderstanding of religion. Most of these deaths have been among the poor.

AM: How did you get to know each other? Is it unusual for a Muslim and a Christian to cooperate in this way?

Wuye: It may be we are the only people in the world who used to fight each other but now are friends and work together for peace.

In 1995 we were both invited by the governor of our region to participate in a children’s immunization project sponsored by UNICEF. While there, a journalist who knew of our stories away from violence brought us together, made us to grasp hands, and encouraged us to work together for peace. At this point we began talking to each other.

AM: What is your view of sectarian conflict in Egypt?

Ashafa: To speak of Nigeria first: Our founding fathers were Muslims and Christians who worked together to build the nation, but a hurt developed between the colonialist British and the Muslims in the north. There, an Islamic system had been in place for centuries, but the colonialists replaced this with an English system.

Muslims then split into three groups. Some rejected the British queen altogether and moved to Sudan. Others separated themselves from the system and isolated from government contact. The third group decided to join the government and seek to use it to reestablish the glories of Islam.

Unfortunately, the colonial government employed this third group to exploit the non-Muslim populations in the south, using them as tax collectors. These animist peoples eventually became Christians and developed animosity toward the Muslims.

These pains have remained since Nigerian independence, and all problems can quickly take on religious dimensions. It is not unusual for a small conflict to develop into a big issue.

This colonial heritage is shared between Nigeria and Egypt. In Egypt, Muslims and Christians have lived together for centuries, but recently the relationship has been getting sour, as we saw in Imbaba.

Your problems are minor compared to ours, but we have seen our problems explode, and we don’t want to see your problems degenerate as ours have done. Overall, we are very proud of Egypt. Behind us, you are the 2^nd most populous country in Africa.

AM: How do you describe your work, and why did you set it up?

Wuye: Our work is non-governmental, non-political, and focused on civil society. We set it up for three reasons: First, to prevent conflict from happening. Second, to mediate between those in conflict. Third, to build bridges and encourage forgiveness.

We do work with the government at the grassroots level if requested to help solve community problems. But we do not work for the government.

AM: Do you have support from the government?

Wuye: Moral support, yes. Financial support, no.

Ashafa: In terms of the community, people are divided. Some think that we betray each other’s particular religious group. Others believe we are compromisers, and benefit from the support of the West. Most people, though, the silent majority, believe we are doing the right thing.

AM: What is your organizational structure?

Wuye: We are composed only of Nigerians, aiming to be equal in number between Muslims and Christians. In our headquarters we are fourteen people, seven and seven. We have at least one Muslim and one Christian volunteer in 36 of the Nigerian states.

Ashafa: We also have worked in Sudan, Kenya, Sierra Leone, Burundi, South Africa, Bosnia, and Iraq. We have also presented our story in many other nations.

AM: What is the concept of religion in Nigeria?

Ashafa: According to the BBC World study in February 2003, Nigeria is the most religious nation in the world. And according to the Bettleman Foundation study in 2007, it has an 82% rating on religious sensitivity. Among the traditional Muslim and Christian communities in Nigeria are emerging Salafi and evangelical trends.

It is not possible to say that religion in Nigeria is moderate, since our great religious sensitivity can lead easily to explosions of violence, especially in the north. But, it is not proper to call it extremist either, though we do have radical movements that name themselves after Gaza, Kandahar, and the like.

AM: What word do you have for Muslims and Christians in Egypt?

Wuye: We know you are for peace. We watched during your revolution as Muslims and Christians protected each other during times of prayer. Continue this relation. God bless Egypt.

Ashafa: Egypt is the hope of the Arab world. You are going through a democratic process – make sure it is non-violent. We are proud of Egypt, and hope you can consolidate your gains in the September elections.

Tags Egypt, James Wuye, Mohamed Ashafa, Nigeria

Prayers

Friday Prayers for Egypt

God,

May there be no such thing as a common enemy. For this to happen, much must change.

Egypt’s neighbor is at fault in many issues. It is right for Egypt to press her, to hold her accountable, and to act from a proper sense of sovereignty. For an enemy to disappear, this neighbor must change, and must change radically.

Yet for an enemy to disappear, much harder change must occur internally. Help Egypt to exercise sober judgment. Help her to avoid assumption, generalization, and demonization. Help her to resist a simple populism that calls on the baser nature of humanity. May Egypt be lifted up so as to be righteous – seeking justice firmly and mercy liberally. May she be both strong and humble.

Yet so much conspires against such transformation, God. Both Egypt and her neighbor have benefited from recent tragic events; both have received distractions from other internal problems. Yet five Egyptian officers remain dead, and security issues in the Sinai threaten Egypt and her neighbor alike. God, thank you that so far, cooler heads have prevailed. Thank you that protests were not overwhelming, and that to some degree they are lessening.

Yet God, we praise you for these protests. We praise you that Egypt may no longer allow affronts to her sovereignty to pass unrecognized. But teach and guide the people, God, to issue their protest honorably. May they seek alternate explanations and the perspective of the other. May they recognize the humanity and position of difficulty faced by those they oppose. May they have wisdom and grace to love their enemy, yet never back down.

God, Egypt is still suffering from its past sins. These do not negate the sins of the neighbor, but they must be atoned for all the same. How hard this must be for Egypt to recognize, yet help her to do so. Provide men who will lead Egypt in the way of peace, and in so doing, rebuke her neighbors in her example.

God, gently rebuke also those who have continued in the old ways, on all sides. Break their chains, free their hearts, and strengthen their resolve. May Egypt’s revolution transform all aspects of her character – overflow her goodness, and mend her flaws.

May Egypt come to love her neighbor, God. May one day that neighbor follow suit. May this love be built on your ultimate justice, but not shirk back in waiting for it. Comfort all those dealing with the pain even of contemplation. God, grant forgiveness. Grant it especially to those who call for it, who know nothing of this pain. Comfort, comfort… but only love can heal. May Egypt come to love her neighbor.

Tags Egypt, God, Prayer

Personal

Uniform Shopping

2011 08-09 Egypt 061 Large Web view — Wearing her favorite pink dress, Emma celebrates her new school uniform

Yesterday we got to do an exciting getting-ready-for-school thing when we went to buy Emma’s uniform. It is pretty standard here to have uniforms in school and hers is no different. A couple of weeks ago the school told me where to go to buy one, and we’ve been waiting for a free afternoon to do just that. I told Emma in the morning that we would go after lunch to get it, but reminded her that we have no choice when it comes to school uniforms. Everyone wears the same thing, and we wear the uniform and colors that the school chooses. I wanted her to be prepared for this because she is sometimes particular about clothes. She has a favorite dress that she has worn everyday possible since February when she first got it as a hand-me-down. It is short-sleeved so she had to wear a shirt and pants under it during America’s winter, but now it is at least weather-appropriate. It has a few holes in it, but still she insists to wear it every time it is clean, which is basically every other day. She even has favorite underwear and socks to go with it—all pink. So you can see why I was concerned about her feelings on a school uniform.

We walked down the street to the uniform place and entered a small clothing store which pictured a school-uniformed girl outside. There were at least 10 young men wearing the store’s vest and ready to help any customer who entered. At the time, I was the only one along with my two little girls. I think they were initially quite puzzled that this babbling half-Arabic speaker was buying a school uniform for an Egyptian school. But I had memorized the things I was supposed to tell them…I need a uniform for Wadi Degla Language School, grade KG2.

I noticed neat stacks of different colored shirts on the shelves behind the counter, and a few of these stacks were pink. I silently prayed that the pink was for the girls of this school. But it didn’t take but a minute for the man helping me to put a mostly navy blue, with a red stripe and light blue stripe, polo shirt on the counter complete with a Wadi Degla emblem on it. I reiterated that this was for a girl, but it seems that all the uniforms are the same for this school. Emma was behind me but could see it, and yet didn’t complain. She tried on a shirt to check the size and then we went into a dressing room to try on the navy blue pants which were much too long and a little baggy, but surprisingly fit around the waist. Next she tried on the soccer warm-up that is the uniform for P.E. days. I wanted to take her picture while we were doing this simply because buying a school uniform was a new thing, but the man told me cameras were forbidden in the store. Not sure if they were afraid I would try to make a copy of the uniform or what, but I saved my picture for once we got out of the store. (pic in stroller) After we tried on the sweatsuit, which is Emma’s favorite part of the whole uniform, the man asked if I wanted to see the “sweater.” I put this is quotes because while we were speaking Arabic the whole time, he used the English word here. I said yes since this would be needed in winter and he brought out a fairly thick winter coat. I was surprised at this but he assured me this would be needed in the winter. I thought a sweater would be much more useful, but as they really weren’t trying to push multiple items on me throughout my time there, I didn’t feel they were just trying to “sell” me something.

At the end, we purchased one of everything we thought we would need for the year. I didn’t want to go overboard, although now that I’ve left the store, I realize that I will really need another shirt and pair of pants since she will be wearing these five days a week. Fortunately it isn’t too far for me to head back there. I was a little surprised at the cost of this all, thinking some of the things more expensive than I expected. I am pretty sure most schools in Egypt have uniforms, including the public schools. I wondered how the cost for them varied since many Egyptians are quite poor, I didn’t think a school uniform should be a strain on their budget. For all my purchases which included one pair of pants, one short-sleeved polo, one long-sleeved polo, one sweatsuit and one jacket, it cost me 600LE, or about $100. I guess as I write this that isn’t too expensive to outfit my child for her whole school year, but I ‘m just not used to spending that much in one shopping trip!

This store also carried other school accessories such as backpacks, lunch boxes and thermoses. Emma was sure to point out which of all of these things she wanted and Hannah chimed in on her desires too. I thanked them for their suggestions but assured them they had good backpacks for this school year already and I would consider the lunch boxes if necessary. We headed back home to show our new things to Daddy.

As we arrived home that day, Emma was talking excitedly about her uniform, and Hannah said, “but Emma, it’s black.” I quickly shot Hannah a glance which meant, “Let’s not remind her of the dark color of the uniform,” and we entered the house.

Thankfully Emma is eager to wear her new uniform, especially the sweatsuit for P.E. She is counting down the days until school starts, although is a bit distracted as her birthday comes first and requires its own countdown. I realized I have a lot to learn about this whole uniform thing, and I’m sure, the Egyptian school system in general. I just hope I send her to school on day one at the right time with the right things wearing the correct uniform. She will already have enough differences to overcome; I don’t want to add to them!

2011 08-09 Egypt 290 Large Web view — The eager student

Tags Egypt, School uniform

Prayers

Friday Prayers for Egypt

God,

Wisdom is needed now, even more than before. Egypt’s troubles have spilled across the border. Many of them may not even be Egypt’s problems, but it is her border. And now, several Egyptian officers are dead, seemingly at the hand of her much reviled neighbor.

God, give a slow hand to those in authority. Amid the outrage, temper the anger of the people. Silence those who will manipulate events to advance an agenda of rejection, hatred, and violence. Appoint people to discover the truth, and then to act appropriately, with whatever necessary severity. God, prevent escalation. Give people hope that justice will come through civil means. Even as there may be little faith, make this your miracle.

God, the recent events make internal arguments pale in comparison. Yet healing is needed here as well. Political groups came together to endorse principles for the coming constitution, then immediately divided again on their nature as guiding or binding. Activists and political forces came together against military trials for civilians, though the issue has not yet settled. Before the events on the border, much rancor enveloped these divisions. Is it any consolation they may now be lessened, or at least suspended?

Politics is struggle, and unanimity is not imagined. God, may each fight fairly. May each be honest, open, and transparent. Even so, enlarge the spheres of agreement, so these disputes may settle on the details.

But if politics is struggle, war is its dreaded continuation by other means. Most prayer is necessary for disputants beyond the border, God. Grant them the wisdom and forbearance which appears in short supply. Bring peace and justice; bring understanding, trust, and love. Such is an impossible cry, God, but these are your currency. For those unable to pray this in the middle of their conflict, accept it God, from those who can intercede for them. God, you hold the heart of the king in your hand. Turn the hearts of all toward peace.

And for Egypt, God, may these developments not spoil her advancements made. Protect her border; rid her of violent men. Yet protect with more tenacity the goodness of the Egyptian people; may they not turn toward hatred. May they see justice satisfied, and may their hearts cry out to you until it comes. Yet fill them with compassion for the unjust and beg your forgiveness upon them, as upon themselves.

God, protect Egypt. May her next steps set a new tone of diplomacy for the region, and may she be a leader for peace.

Amen.

Tags Egypt, God, Prayer

Personal

My School is Locked

P1000736 Large Web view — Off to school and preschool

Emma and Hannah have been attending a local preschool here in Maadi, for the last two years. Emma started just a few months after we arrived in Cairo, and Hannah joined her sister when she turned 2 ½. One of the main reasons we chose to send the girls to preschool is to help them learn Arabic in a natural way. We searched several preschools and found that many quality ones focused on teaching the kids English. We wanted the quality and the good care associated with these preschools, but didn’t want the English teaching that was included. We eventually found a preschool maintained by one of the local Coptic churches, which had a basic program, but caring teachers. One of the most important factors for us was that the teachers and children were all Egyptian Arabic speakers. We knew our girls would be immersed in the language.

At the beginning, Emma, then age 3+, didn’t really know any Arabic. But since she was so young, we figured she would be able to function without language until she just assimilated into it. I got encouraging reports from the teachers frequently as they told me that she was understanding them, then understanding the children and finally, communicating with the children in Arabic. She didn’t speak with us in Arabic often, but we would try to gauge her understanding by asking her what she learned different days and different vocab words.

By the time Hannah joined Emma, I knew that the big sister would be able to communicate anything necessary for the little one. Hannah was excited to join Emma as she went with me everytime I picked Emma up or dropped her off. She already knew the teachers and some of the kids. And so they both attended three days a week for half a day.

October 2010 306 Large Web view — Volunteering in the classroom

Over the months, I got to know the teachers more and eventually did a little volunteer teaching in English/music once a week. It was a fun challenge for me teaching preschoolers who don’t speak English. It stretched my Arabic and gave me a chance to teach some fun things to my own girls too! It was a good situation and we were happy to stick with it for Hannah once Emma enters school in the fall.

This was until a few weeks ago when I took Hannah into school in the morning and only the two aides were present. They asked me if I had been to the parents’ meeting the night before and I told them I hadn’t heard there was one. They then proceeded to tell me what was going on.

Apparently, one of the little girls in the class had gotten out of the classroom one day the previous week without the teachers noticing. Now this classroom is located inside a building which is set back a ways from the main gate of the facility. This building is by no means set up to be a preschool as it belongs to the villa-coffeeshop of the Coptic Church across the street, but it works. I couldn’t quite understand from the conversation, all of it in Arabic, if the girl had just gotten out of the classroom, only to be apprehended by someone sitting in the coffeeshop portion of the facility, or if she made it all the way out the gate before being noticed by a passerby and then returned to the room. There is a difference here, of course, as the second scenario is more serious especially given that a busy traffic circle is close to the gate, and also that a stranger returned her. I am thinking this is what happened. Praise the Lord there was no harm to the little girl, but you can imagine her parents’ fear and anger when they learned what happened. This news quickly reached the school’s supervisor and then ultimately, the bishop in charge of preschools in the area. By the time I talked with the teacher aides that morning, they were planning on all being fired even though some had served there for more than 20 years.

I was really sorry to hear this story and the plight of the teachers. Yes, it is definitely an oversight which could have been catastrophic, but I don’t know where all the blame lies. Ultimately, the teachers are responsible for each one of the children during the day, and so, the fault lies with them. At the same time, they felt they were being taken to task without any chance for answering for themselves, or any consideration for their previous years of service. I felt bad for them and told them I would give a good word for them if asked.

I immediately had the opportunity for this as I left the room that morning, leaving Hannah in the classroom with just a few other children whose parents either hadn’t heard the news or trusted the teachers anyway. I ran into one of the men responsible for the preschool program and he told me the story once again after apologizing for not informing me of the parents’ meeting, but he didn’t have my phone number. He was definitely upset with the teachers and said two things needed to be done: 1) reconfigure the classroom to keep the children contained, moving the bathroom within the facility; and 2) replace the teachers. I did my best to support the teachers saying that if they fixed the first problem, then this shouldn’t happen again. He didn’t seem convinced, but let me know the preschool would remain open the rest of the week before closing for a period of time.

Hannah finished out the week with the two teachers aides as the two teachers themselves refused to return to the place where they were being treated unfairly. I was told that I could check back within about a month to see when they would re-open. Or at least, that is what I understood them to say in Arabic. By this time, Emma had begun a summer course, so she was at that five days a week, and now Hannah was home with me and Layla five days a week! The first few days were rough for her as she couldn’t wait to go pick Emma up from school so she had a playmate! It had been a long time since she wasn’t with Emma during the day, and she wasn’t sure what to do with herself. We did get some quality time in, going shopping and cooking lunch, but I did have to restructure my day from what I was used to.

After a few weeks, I returned to the villa to check on the progress. I ran into one of the teacher aides who was now working the cash register at the coffee shop. The other aide had found work in the baby section of the preschool and the two teachers were hoping to open their own preschool within a couple months. I was glad that there was some reshuffling rather than everyone being totally let go, but this aide told me that the preschool would not re-open at all. That was a surprise to me, but that was the decision that was reached. She then told me about the other preschool opening and gave me the teacher’s number. I was glad to hear of that option as I really had developed a relationship with the other two teachers and the girls and I were all comfortable with them.

So that is where we are today. After talking to the teacher on the phone, she said I can come see her new place in a couple weeks and decide if Hannah will attend or not. In the meantime, I’ve told Emma and Hannah what happened at their old preschool, and they seem to understand to a point. The other day, Hannah related the story to her grandmother this way: “My school is locked. A kid got out and the policeman brought her back.” Hopefully she can have a new school soon.

Tags Arabic, Cairo, Egypt, Maadi, Preschool

Prayers

Friday Prayers for Egypt

God,

As people observe their first full week of Ramadan, honor their fasting.

God, sometimes prayers are hard. What can be asked that has not been asked before? God, bring good to Egypt. Bring freedom and justice. Restore hope. May more and more turn their hope to you, even as they rightly strive, in whatever direction. Protect Egypt from harm. May this nation know your grace, your love, and may this be lived out among the people. There is so much good here, God. Preserve and multiply it.

Where there is sin, God, forgive and redeem it. Where there is division, heal it. Teach Egypt your way, God, and help her to walk in it. Make this nation great, and an example to all. You have given so many blessings so far. May people, this month especially, reflect and give thanks.

Amen.

Tags Egypt, God, Prayer

Personal

Nonviolence and Christianity

Post author By Jayson
Post date August 7, 2011
1 Comment on Nonviolence and Christianity

From the Peace Fountain and Biblical Garden, New York City

I would honestly say that if I could choose a religion, I would choose Christianity and its ideal of universal acceptance, love, and forgiveness. It is all so beautiful. It is just so unfortunate that the history of Christianity has nothing to do with these ideas.

Eyad Sarraj, head of the Gaza Community Mental Health Program and of the Palestinian Independent Commission for Citizens’ Rights

This quote comes from a book I have been reading, entitled ‘The Body and the Blood’, which I referenced once before in this post, concerning Palestinian refugees and the ‘right of return’. The book is a journalistic account of the exodus of Christians from the Middle East, focusing on Palestine. When I finish I hope to write a short book review, but for now, I will only highly recommend it.

One of the author’s themes highlights that the Middle East has witnessed violence upon violence, in the form of Israeli occupation, Muslim resistance, and terrorism. Yet while Christians have also at times joined in the violence, their religion’s focus on nonviolence could potentially equip this minority to assume a role of peace, either in highlighting the injustice of occupation, or in rebuking the assault upon it through stones, suicide bombers, and rocket fire. Yet the Christian exodus from the area not only removes this voice from the equation, it also allows for popular Western definition of the struggle as between Muslims and Jews, in which both get dismissed as the problem then appears both foreign and intractable.

The above quote means to put the issue of nonviolence before the Western Christian audience. Not for Palestine per se, but for world history and current Christian attitudes. Eyad Sarraj is introduced as a secular Muslim from a deeply religious family. Conversion is not an issue as the entrenched religious lines of Palestine do not allow for movement between faiths, certainly not toward Christianity, and in any case as a secular individual he might not see religion as an important personal matter. The issue is his perception. Within his Islamic heritage and Palestinian politics he speaks boldly about the beauty of the Christian message. Unfortunately, he does not see its historic reality.

May the question be asked: What would have to change in order to change his perception?

Without pretending that Western governments represent Christian values, should Christians better pressure their governments according to nonviolent principles? What might this do to world affairs? What might it do for the Christian message? What kind of nonviolence is intended? What are its limits? Does nonviolence as a principle apply to groups as opposed to individuals? Does it apply to nations?

The author highlights that Jesus’ principle of ‘turn the other cheek’ is often misunderstood. Rather than passive acceptance of violence, it is an assertion of equality. To strike the right cheek, as the gospel emphasizes, requires a backhand slap from the aggressor’s right hand. In the culture of the time, this was a great insult. It was punishable by law if administered to an equal, but legally permissible if targeting an inferior. Jesus’ teaching says to turn to him the left cheek, in order to receive a proper blow. The invitation is to be struck as an equal, yet all the while not returning the violence.

If this interpretation is correct, it forces reevaluation of Jesus’ teaching of nonviolence, but also removes the popular notion that is it ethereal and hopelessly pious. It may yet be foolish, but it becomes foolishness with a purpose. It is a foolishness from utter strength, no matter how much it forsakes the worldly use of strength.

Yet what does this interpretation say to the one who possesses strength in the worldly sense? This is the position of most Western nations, and many Western Christians. Perhaps it is only to note that Jesus does not address these, at least in this passage. His interests lie elsewhere. They lie with the suffering and oppressed. Interestingly, his message is not to rebel, but it is to resist the status quo of their position. It is to stand strong.

Certainly Jesus would care for all, the strong and the mighty among them. Yet may the contemplation of these questions, regardless of where the answers lie, help Christians evaluate with whom they stand. Where Christians exist among the strong, may they exercise this strength on behalf of those not yet standing.

Tags Christianity, Jesus, Nonviolence, Palestine

Prayers

Friday Prayers for Egypt

God,

Thank you that the bloodshed of other nations has been largely avoided in Egypt. Where this bloodshed exists, God, intercede and bring peace, along with justice.

But the absence of bloodshed does not mean peace, necessarily. God, many hearts are hardened toward one another. In such a climate, who can weigh motivations? God, in even the best of climates, only you can weigh them.

Do demonstrators push the envelope too far? Do the authorities push back too hard? Are politicians pushed by the winds of interest? Are the people tired of all the pushing?

God, may it be that each of these pursues their path for the love of Egypt. So many are accused of other motivations; undoubtedly, some are.

God, you can redeem contradictory visions that move in different directions. You can even redeem plans that stem from selfish hearts. Do so, God, and purify all in the process.

Purify also from the excess of speculation. Help people to think; help them to perceive. Enliven their spirits to discern right from wrong. Yet curb the rush to pronounce judgment on limited evidence. Add trust to the process, to sufficient degree.

God, so many believed in the revolution, and many believe still. For others, their faith is being tested. May hearts remain pure, soft, and vulnerable, despite hurts inflicted, or suspected. May forgiveness and grace proceed from all parties. Soften words of insult; harden resolve and accountability.

God, bring justice, now on its biggest stage. The president is not above his crimes; may he meet with appropriate punishment, and escape any undue charges. May the law rule; may there be sanction, and not retribution. Revenge, God, is only for you.

Justice helps the heart, God, but it does not heal it. Bring healing to Egypt; she has suffered much for decades. May truth be established for all to see. May reconciliation end in the embrace of all Egyptians.

Yet so many are still fighting, and that over issues far removed from the national cause. Bless the good nature of the people, as so little violence has occurred in the void of security and the proliferation of weapons. Still, the violence increases; stability is needed. God, protect the people.

There is so much unknown, God, yet a calm of sorts has settled. It may be a false calm, or forced, or exhausted. It may not last. But we pray for progress in this transition; we pray for freedom and dignity and justice. We pray for peace. We pray for the authorities, that they may have wisdom to govern. We pray for the people that they might have courage to press on. We pray for all, that they might love one another. God, your hand is needed. Honor Egypt, God. Keep her on the right path, amidst all her challenges. Make her pure, and keep her so.

Amen.

Tags Egypt, God, Prayer

Personal

Emma: A Cross-Cultural Self-Portrait

Post author By Jayson
Post date August 2, 2011
No Comments on Emma: A Cross-Cultural Self-Portrait

2011 06-07 Egypt 541 Large Web view — From our young artist

A few weeks ago, Emma drew her first self-portrait. Actually, I think it was her first attempt at drawing a person at all, and she chose herself. I’m not sure where this falls on the list of developmental milestones or if she is on track, but up until now she hasn’t drawn many things. She likes to color and stays in the lines well, and usually likes to use many colors on her pictures. She is working on writing her letters and numbers and can draw shapes and such, but pictures of things have been few.

The other day I went to pick her up from a church nursery and she proudly showed me her picture (on left). She pointed out that she had very long hair and flowers on her dress. I think her friend, Emma, who was in the same class may have drawn a self portrait as well, so maybe that is where the idea came from. Since then, I have seen her draw herself two more times. The last time is pictured on the right. There have been a couple variations, but some things remained the same.

One of my favorite aspects of these pictures is the arms. I love how they come out of her head, and am curious to know why this is, and also when she may notice that coming out of the sides might be more accurate. One of the variations between pictures is her dress. In her first picture, she drew a flowery dress, which is a normal thing for her to wear, especially as she basically wears nothing but dresses these days. Her second picture she colored her very favorite dress on herself, or so she told me. It looks a little red to me, rather than the actual pink color of the dress, but its close enough. I thought the colors on this last drawing were interesting as they reminded me of Egypt’s colors, but I don’t think that went through her mind.

The one constant through all three of her self-portraits was her long hair. You’ll notice that her hair is incredibly long in these pictures, reaching way down below her feet even! It’s not the same color in both pictures, but I don’t know if that is a conscious choice. I do think, however, that her drawings of very long hair are reflective of a struggle she is having. She really really really wants long hair, but at this point, it is only medium-length. She has fine, slow-growing hair. I did cut the back a few times, over a year ago, as I thought it looked better a little on the shorter side, rather than long and thin. But she has said many times that she doesn’t want it cut, and wants it to be long. Sometimes her desire is to be like me, which often takes me by surprise. Some days she wants a ponytail because “mommy has a ponytail.” She doesn’t realize I just do it to keep cool and it’s something I can do quickly in the morning. It’s all about practicality. She just looks at my long hair and wants hers to be the same. I think, though, that this desire for long hair is coming more from the children around her.

We are in Egypt, and most Egyptian girls have lots of long, thick hair. They are born with a full head of hair and it grows quickly after that. Mine are born with just some hair, and then it seems to take forever to grow. Hannah is three and I can barely get a ponytail out of her hair, and I’ve never cut the back. Emma’s is growing, very slowly, but it is something she notices that is different between her and the girls at school. It doesn’t help the situation when one of the girls said to her the other day that her hair was short. She took a real offense at that since short hair is for boys! She didn’t come home crying about it, but she did think to bring it up to me and was quite upset when she recounted the remark. I comforted her as best I could telling her I was sorry that hurt her feelings, and that probably most of the girls she sees here have a lot of hair! I assured her that one day her hair would be longer, but regardless of hair length, she was a beautiful girl.

When I saw her self-portrait that she drew tonight, and noticed the hair reaching beyond the floor once again, I remembered this comment of the schoolmate, and saw this picture as a little white fair-haired American girl trying to fit into the picture of girls she sees around her … dark, long-haired Egyptians. I’m sure there will be many such drawings, conversations, stories, and tears throughout the years of us living cross-culturally as our girls try to fit into a place where they want to belong. God, give us wisdom and the right words to comfort and encourage our little girls.

Tags Egypt, Hair, Third Culture Kids

Arab West Report Middle East Published Articles

A Muslim Clears a Path through Prayers

Post author By Jayson
Post date July 30, 2011
1 Comment on A Muslim Clears a Path through Prayers

Friday Prayers in a neighborhood of Cairo (not from this story)

Friday in Egypt is the day for Muslim prayers, which throughout Islamic history have been a communal event. Around midday the faithful flock to the neighborhood mosque, listen to a sermon, and perform their prayers.

Over the last few decades in Egypt this communal event has spilled out into the street, as Muslims unfurl their prayer rugs and close off the area to traffic for about an hour. In one explanation, this is due to the increasing number of Muslim participants. In another, this is due to the desire of many to assert their religious identity on the fabric of society. In a third, it is the preferred practice to pray in the open air, according to Sunni traditions. But it is a well established pattern and causes little social disruption.

That is, unless in you are driving during the hour when the time of prayer is approaching.

Sherry Ramzy lives in the Cairo isle of Manial enveloped within the Nile River. Out and about on Friday she was passing by the local mosque, as the street was beginning to fill with worshippers.

Hesitant to brave the crowd but already committed in her path, Sherry followed the lead of the taxi driver in front of her, who moved through carefully, but successfully.

As she trailed him, however, the taxi driver stopped to get out and pray, and a donkey cart with vegetables for sale crossed the road and set up shop, blocking the remaining small opening through the mass of people. Before too long, Sherry was surrounded. Meanwhile, the lady with the donkey cart began shouting, “She saw the prayers were beginning, she should have stopped!”

A sense of panic began to settle in. Muslim-Christian relations in Egypt are generally calm, but as the religious identity of both communities has increased, tensions have sometimes developed. Sherry is one who believes prevailing Christian and Muslim attitudes toward each other is too negative. Nevertheless, as a Christian out of place, possibly disturbing a holy Muslim moment, she began to fear. At the very least she faced sitting locked in her car for the next hour. At the worst, she could become a spark that aroused Muslim anger. Helplessness has a way of letting the imagination run wild.

Helplessness also increases the joy of rescue. Before too long the taxi driver took notice of her plight, and asked the owner of the donkey cart to move. This opened a path just wide enough for Sherry to drive through, enabling her to continue on her way. She took notice that her salvation came from one with a long beard and white robe, and wondered if he was not only a Muslim, but a Salafi.

Salafi Muslims follow a conservative interpretation of Islam, calling for the imitation of the life and practice of the Prophet Muhammad and his companions, generally rejecting modernity as inimical to Islam. They have become feared as a social force which could sideline democracy through democratic means. They have also aroused the worry of Christians, as a number of pejorative comments and physical attacks have issued from their community.

Sherry, however, wishes to see that such generalizations are not applied to the whole community. She wrote a description of her experience and posted it on her Facebook page. She desires to see good relationships formed between the Christians and Salafis of Egypt. These may have opposite goals for society, but one must not reject the other out of hand.

Sherry had an open mind and heart to Muslims before her incident, but note the power of kindness while in need. The Muslim in question did nothing more than ask a donkey cart be moved a few feet. But to do so, he needed also to inconvenience those preparing for prayer around it. It was a small matter, but required a fair number of people to adjust in favor of a displaced Christian.

The repercussions of this kindness, however, multiply. Sherry has over two hundred friends on her Facebook page; add to this those who read this article. The taxi driver could easily have ignored her; instead, a positive testimony reaches hundreds of people.

This testimony does not invalidate the true accounts of Salafi provocation, heard by thousands. Unfortunately, bad news travels far faster than good. Yet it seeks to show the humanity, goodness, and, as Sherry emphasizes, the Arabness of individuals within the movement. It may well be this testimony represents the majority.

May we be mindful of the unknown consequences – both positive and negative – that our seemingly minor actions set in motion. Furthermore, may we purpose to exhibit such kindness, especially to those considered as against us. Egypt needs repair; it needs relationships built and reestablished. Such actions have the ability to warm hearts and change opinions.

As Sherry received, may we all so give. The world is no less needy.

Tags Egypt, Manial, Muslim, Salafi

Prayers

Friday Prayers for Egypt

God,

Is there good from breaking agreements, managing spin, and rejecting the other? Maybe. Hundreds of thousands of people demonstrated freely today. People. People you love, God. People who are valuable. People who strive to make something of themselves for this world. Honor them, God. Protect them from evil.

Protect Egypt, God. Protect her from manipulations. Protect her from agendas. Protect her from her own children. Protect her from those who claim to represent them.

Times are confusing, God. Perhaps they are dangerous. Perhaps the danger is simply manufactured. Yet in confusing times a rock is needed. God, be that rock for many. May the people fear you. May they love you. May they commit themselves to good for your sake.

But God, today it seems the claim to you only serves to divide. It is more than the claim, it is the vision they have of you. When you are involved, too often complexity is replaced by an undue simplicity. Can things be simple? Act justly, love mercy, walk humbly. God, may we weep over anything more complex than this. All the while, help Egypt engage the complexity she now faces.

So if you have become divisive, God, give people the rock of your image in man. It is a lesser rock, but it is firm. May they people rally around their common humanity. May your grace unite them. May each honor the other. May each love the other. May each, beyond comprehension, seek the interest of the other.

God, can Egypt trust this way? Is this your way? Or must they fight, claw, and elbow for each inch of the public arena? Perhaps you are known in that very arena. Reveal yourself, God, to each one fighting for truth as best they know it. Rebuke each one fighting for that which is selfish, however noble the ends, as best they believe them. Be good to Egypt, God. Be merciful.

You have been so good already. Thank you, and help Egypt to be thankful. Help her to see your hand at work amidst the confusion and complexity. Help peace to come. May there be justice for all. May you be praised.

Amen.

Tags Egypt, God, Prayer

Personal

Rebuilding the Social Fabric: Muslims and Christians in Community Service Organizations

Post author By Jayson
Post date July 26, 2011
No Comments on Rebuilding the Social Fabric: Muslims and Christians in Community Service Organizations

2011 04-05 Egypt Portugal 269 Large Web view — Yousry Fu'ad Abdel Latif (and me)

Civil society is one of the hallmarks of a strong nation. Conspicuously, it was rather absent in pre-revolutionary Egypt. President Mubarak did his best to depoliticize the people, with even extension of social services neglected. While religious groups such as the Muslim Brotherhood and the Orthodox Church picked up the slack on both counts, this also contributed to the increasing polarization of the two religious communities, especially Christians, who felt discriminated against in the public square and thereafter largely abandoned it.

These faults have been recognized since the revolution; overcoming them is the current challenge. Yousry Fu’ad Abdel Latif is one man who is trying.

Yousry is a lawyer, aged 44, who lives in Hadayak al-Maadi. Following the revolution he has created and coordinated the Coalition of Dar al-Salaam Youth, submitting paperwork to establish it as a legally recognized community association. Dar al-Salaam is a traditional, working class area to the north of the affluent Cairo suburb of Maadi; Hadayak al-Maadi belongs more properly within its ensign.

I stumbled upon this group quite by accident. Wandering through the Hadayak neighborhood I saw signs posted calling the youth of the area to join in a trash cleanup campaign. Two things were noteworthy: One, the signs were posted on both the mosque and the church, opposite one another across the street. Two, the campaign was taking place the very hour I was passing by. I met three or four of the youth, wearing surgical gloves and mouth coverings, hauling garbage bags behind them. They introduced me to Yousry, and we set up an appointment.

2011 04-05 Egypt Portugal 268 Large Web view — Poster for the Coalition of Dar al-Salaam Youth

The goal of the coalition is to begin transforming Egypt from the local community outward. Individuals must take responsibility for themselves and their area, seeking reform, development, moral consciousness, social justice, and cultural awareness. It is meant to deliberately include Muslims and Christians together, ultimately producing a democratic society in which all are free to participate. Though the coalition organizes seminars and medical testing to accomplish its goals, garbage collection was the starting point. It is the practical work that will forge youth of the area together as a team.

Yousry introduced me to a few members of the coalition. Mahir Fayiz is a 24 year old Copt, of Orthodox heritage but involved with an evangelical social group. He possesses a high school diploma and works in his family’s neighborhood shop, selling rugs and tapestries. One day he heard the calls of a few youth, who he knew but was not necessarily friends with, to come out and clean the streets of Hadayak. Thinking it was a good idea, he joined in.

Mahir asked specifically if he could clean the steps of the mosque, and was so designated. He saw the goals of the coalition as worthy in their own right, and wished to promote community integration by taking this symbolic act of service. He stated that doing so earned him respect among his peers in the coalition, most of whom were Muslim. “The more we focus on our nation,” he says, “the more our country will grow. The more we focus on religion, the more we will divide.” Yousry was particularly impressed by his attitude and actions.

Sharif Muhammad Zakaria is a 21 year old Muslim. He possesses a high school technical degree and works as an interior painter. He knew of Yousry previously as a neighborhood lawyer, and as such has been involved from the beginning. What originally took his attention for the garbage cleanup campaign, however, was the pile of trash accumulated on the side wall of the church. This was unacceptable, he said, and dishonorable for a place of worship. Sharif is a practicing Muslim, but finds groups like the Muslim Brotherhood to focus too much on religion. “Religion is for God,” he says, “but the coalition is united around service to our country, which is for all.”

Yet despite the intentions of the coalition to integrate community Muslims and Christians, so far it has been slow going. Yousry states there are about 70-80 committed members of the group, but only 3-4 of these are Christians.[1] Meanwhile, though the coalition consists of eight separate committees, none are coordinated by Christians.

Fayiz stated that he hoped to bring other Christians into the coalition, but as his friends are primarily among the fewer evangelicals in Hadayak, he is not part of the much larger Orthodox youth group. Sharif stated he has found a good reception to the coalition among his friends in general, but he has not yet invited the one Christian friend he has. He plans to, however.

Yousry noted this was an issue, and stated he desires to increase Christian participation in the coalition. He noted his instructions to the youth to ask permission at the church and mosque before posting their flyers. In separate conversation with Fr. Arsanius of the local Orthodox church in Hadayak, he signaled receptivity to meet Yousry, which was appreciated when I relayed the news. Hopefully, the two will be able to sit down soon.

Yet instead of critiquing the coalition makeup, it should be remembered the effort is only five months old. The forces which have worked to separate Muslims and Christians in Egypt have been operating for decades, largely overcoming the inherent national inclination for tolerance and cooperation. What is necessary now is commitment to fight the status quo.

Sharif noted that about 80% of his friends reacted positively to the ideal of the group, but far fewer have joined. “They are used to initiatives coming to nothing,” he says. Post-revolution Egypt has given new hope, but old mindsets are hard to change. The power of inertia requires great effort to reverse.

Time will tell if Yousry and his team possess the dedication necessary. Time will tell if Christian youth will emerge from the church to join a Muslim majority community effort. Yet Yousry’s focus may appeal to their Christian virtue: “Love is the basis of my organizing. If they feel you love them, they will follow you.”

Love can be a fickle emotion, or it can be the most powerful force in the world. To be the latter, it requires commitment to serve the interest of the other. May the youth of Dar al-Salaam find the means to discover it together.

[1] This equals about 4%, whereas the Christian population in Egypt is about 6-7%. I am unaware of the percentage split in the Dar al-Salaam area.

Could Imbaba Happen in Maadi? (asenseofbelonging.wordpress.com)

Tags Civil Society, Coptic, Egypt, Islam, Orthodoxy

Personal

A Tour of the Caspers’ Second Apartment

Post author By Jayson
Post date July 23, 2011
No Comments on A Tour of the Caspers’ Second Apartment

October 2010 074 Large Web view — In front of our home

Last year we made a video of our home here in Maadi, Cairo, Egypt. While it was the perfect spot for us at the time, we knew our time there was limited since the landlord’s son was slotted to take it over once he got married. So in anticipation of that event, we searched on and off for our second place in Maadi.

We desired to find an apartment with a yard within our price range, but Cairo is a major city, and even in the green, upper-middle class neighborhood of Maadi, private yards are not so affordable. But we tried our luck and called a real estate agent with our price limit as well as the requirement of some sort of garden. Within a day or two, he called us back and offered to show us what is now our current home. We decided within a few days to move in, and our first landlord agreed to let us out of the contract early, as well as return our security deposit – two things which rarely happen here – as he was eager to begin getting the apartment ready for his son. And so, with our newborn baby and two toddlers in tow, we moved down the street about five blocks.

We were able to borrow a friend’s car for the gradual move, and this allowed us to move almost all of our things to the new apartment over five trips in five days. I would take two girls in our double stroller, with a few things in the basket underneath, while Jayson took a car-load and one girl to the new place. He usually beat me there, but not always! Sometimes walking in Cairo is faster than driving. And by the end of the week, one truckload of furniture completed our move.

We have now been in this apartment for a whole year, and have renewed our lease for the coming year. It has been a good place for us. We look forward to what the next year brings here in Egypt and in our home on Road 73.

Please click here for the tour.

Tags Apartment, Cairo, Egypt, Maadi

Prayers

Friday Prayers for Egypt

God,

Lines are being drawn in many places. Among the protestors separate groups are emerging, and though they are tangibly united, they toss accusations against one another.

Meanwhile many Islamist groups turn against the protestors, tossing accusations against them, which are returned in kind.

Next week the Islamists call for a major demonstration, and some seem to be calling to overwhelm them in numbers. There is no call for confrontation, but possibilities are there. The sit-in has gone on twelve days already – it took eighteen to remove Mubarak.

The military leadership has acceded to some of the protestors’ demands, but most protestors remain unsatisfied they have done enough. These toss accusations against the military council. Some are calling for escalations in protest to the level of civil disobedience. Some have begun hunger strikes.

God, you know these things, and you know the answers. When lines are drawn many start believing there are good guys to win out against the bad guys. God, may it be that each participant’s intentions are good. God, may it be each is led to repent of their bad conduct in the midst of this struggle, which we trust is still noble.

God, maybe some parties are bad – certainly the conspiracies are advanced in order to label their opposite. If so, prevent them God from violating the greater good of Egypt.

God, within this struggle, help all to commit to peace. Help each to esteem their political opponent. Make the diversity of opinion respectable, so that divergent views might coalesce into the greatest common solution.

Have mercy on Egypt, God. Bring about a nation built upon respect, freedom, justice, and equality. May talents and resources be unleashed for widespread economic gain. May creativity and commitment cause regional blessings to spill out from Egypt. May love become a hallmark of this great people.

But for tonight, God, and this week, keep people safe. As they sleep this evening, help them to evaluate themselves, and seek your wisdom and guidance. Keep commitment steady, God, to the degree it is necessary. But couple this commitment with concern for the other. God, may each pray for his opposite.

Be good to Egypt, God. Bless her and give her peace.

Amen.

Tags God, Prayer

Personal

A Tale of Two Toddlers: On the Passing of my Grandfather

Post author By Jayson
Post date July 20, 2011
2 Comments on A Tale of Two Toddlers: On the Passing of my Grandfather

2011 02-04 USA 215 Large Web view — Halver Van Dame and Layla Casper

My Grandfather passed away yesterday and it brought to mind the last times we saw him in the early spring when we were visiting the States for a couple months.

My parents are empty-nesters, as all five children have married, moved out, and have kids of their own. Much to my mom’s joy, they are all living within 20 minutes of each other, except for me who lives overseas. A little over a year ago, their nest was refilled a bit, when they moved houses to accommodate my dad’s aging parents. They found a house in a beautiful setting with a large back yard, which, most importantly, could allow for an in-law suite. And so, my 96-year old grandmother who was in excellent health and had full mental capabilities moved in along with my 94-year old grandfather whose health was also decent, but who was suffering from dementia. They were so happy with the arrangement, and proud of their two sons for making this work out for them. My grandmother, though getting weaker, could care for my grandfather on a normal day. But to be living with my parents gave them extra security should something happen to one of them.

Unfortunately, about two months after they moved in, my grandmother suffered a debilitating stroke which left her in the hospital and a nursing home for several months until she passed away on her 97^th birthday. She never regained her physical capabilities or her speech and eating functions. This left my grandfather mainly under the care of my father.

About six months after my grandmother’s passing is when we arrived on the scene for a couple months. We were able to observe daily life as my father now cared for his father, much the same way I care for my three-year old toddler.

The similarities were striking. We would all eat dinner together, and much like I decided which food and how much went on my daughter’s plate, my father had to divvy out his father’s portions. Sometimes my grandfather would reach to take more of one thing or another, but knowing his dietary and diabetic restrictions, my father would have to tell him no. This reminded me of my limiting some of the less healthy things for my daughter. I usually avoid talking about desserts or offering too many to my kids. I personally love sweets, but they aren’t that good for me. Why should I encourage my kids to regularly consume them? It was the same with my grandfather. Even though the freezer was filled with three different kinds of ice cream, both “toddlers,” were kept in the dark, for their own good.

Some of the more awkward parts of caring for a parent were also part of a normal day. My grandfather is functional enough to go to the bathroom when he needs to or let my Dad know he needs help. And yet, it is more a matter of routine now. Before bed, my Dad will put my grandfather on the toilet and this is his time to go. At night, he wears Depends, but unfortunately, these do not always do their job. Many days when I was there, the sheets were stripped and washed for the next night. My toddler has been potty trained for some time now, but she still has accidents, and I make it a point to tell her to get on the potty at times throughout the day. She still wears diapers to bed. She is basically able to take care of herself in this area, but needs some assistance. The difference here is about 150 pounds. She’s a lot easier to lift on and off than him.

My grandfather has a pretty simple routine during the day, not nearly involved as my toddler’s. And yet, some of this routine involves playing Rummy. After dinner, my mom, dad and grandfather often play a few hands of Rummy. At times he forgets the rules or forgets what he is doing, but this is a game he played with my grandmother for years at every meal. It is ingrained deep in his memory. My toddler likes to play games, although hers are much simpler and more active. One thing they do share in common here is the television. While my grandfather sat in his living area of the house “watching” cartoons, my toddler would come into his room, climb up on the other recliner and watch right along with him. In fact, my preschooler discovered her new favorite show while watching with him.

It’s hard to see my grandfather in this state. He is a happy guy and his dementia has not made him mean. We’re thankful for that. He’s fairly easygoing. But it is harder to watch all that my dad has to do for him. It is a strange role reversal for my parents as my mom was the primary caregiver for their five children. He takes the main responsibility for his dad. This means he can’t be left alone. Two days a week he goes to an adult daycare center. He seems to enjoy this change of pace, and it allows my dad to play golf or run errands. The other five days, dad is on 24 hours a day. That’s not easy at retirement age. It’s not easy to clean up a messy bed morning after morning. It’s hard work lifting him on and off the toilet. It’s constant responsibility for a 160 pound toddler. It’s arranging for babysitters so they can go out on dates, or simply fulfill other responsibilities they have.

I never heard my dad complain. This wasn’t what he expected when they moved in, as my grandmother was able to do much of this for him. She was more so the one responsible. But it is the reality of the situation, and he has accepted this task to care for his parent. There are good things about Granddaddy not remembering things, as I’m sure it would be difficult to realize your own son was bathing you. But there are hard things too as his life is kind of the same day after day and you wonder about the purpose in it. And mentally, when you care for an aging parent, particularly with dementia, you worry about your own future and don’t wish to be in the same situation yourself.

When it was time for us to return to our home overseas, my grandfather was actually in a rehab center after spending a few days in the hospital for an infection. We hadn’t said good-bye to him previously, so we made sure to stop by the rehab center on our way out of town. He was sitting in a wheelchair as he had recently finished his therapy session. I went in and said hi, reminded him who we were and told him we would be traveling again in a few days so we had come to say goodbye. I thanked him for watching TV with the girls and told him about the favorite show they discovered with him. In the meantime, the girls started getting distracted by the various “toys” in the room. Their favorite was a pink ball. As I got ready to tell them not to touch, the therapist said it was fine. And so, before leaving, my two girls bounced the ball back and forth to my 95-year old “toddler” grandfather sitting in his wheelchair with a big smile on his face. It was fun for all of them, and the best way to say good-bye.

2011 02-04 USA 073 Large Web view — With great-granddaughters, 'watching' cartoons

Tags Family, Grandparent, Toddler

Personal

‘Under God’ and the Egyptian Constitution

Post author By Jayson
Post date July 18, 2011
No Comments on ‘Under God’ and the Egyptian Constitution

During the US Open golf tournament in June, NBC television station came under fire for producing a montage of patriotic images and the spoken text of the Pledge of Allegiance, only with the words ‘under God’ left unarticulated. In July the company issued a formal apology, denying any anti-religious bias was involved, only ill-advised editing. Incidentally, the word ‘indivisible’ was also left out.

Many conservative commentators and religious Americans were skeptical. Even if accidental, the omission feels to them like one more salvo in an assault on religion. Others note that the phrase ‘under God’ is not a tribute to the foundational religious framework of the republic, but a Cold War assertion of religiosity. The Pledge of Allegiance was originally penned in 1892, and officially adopted by Congress in 1942. ‘Under God’, however, was only inserted into the pledge in 1954.

Meanwhile in Egypt, there is a similar controversy. Following the revolution the current plan is for Egyptians to elect a Parliament, which will then select members to draft a new constitution. Fearing an Islamist victory, many liberals are calling for the constitution to be drafted first.

Islamists, however, rally support by raising fears that the liberals will oversee a constitution which removes the current Article Two. This article states that Islam is the religion of the state and the principles of Islamic sharia serve as the basis for the legal code.

The now defunct Egyptian Constitution was drawn up in 1971 by President Anwar Sadat in an effort to somewhat liberalize society after the rule of Gamal Abdel Nasser. At the same time in effort to resist the socialist tendencies of the state rooted in his predecessor, Sadat sought the aid of Muslim religious groups. As a nod in their direction, it is understood, and to cement his own religious legitimacy, he introduced Article Two into the constitution in 1980.

To what degree does a religious heritage need grounding in the laws or pledges of a state? Can a nation have a religion?

Does the Pledge of Allegiance reference to God ultimately stand at odds with the principle of enshrinement of a religion? Or does the potential removal of a reference to God make an equally controversial enshrinement of secularism?

Secularism, meanwhile, is the current boogeyman of Egyptian Islamist politics. But does Article Two discriminate essentially against the Christian minority? Or does the potential removal of the article sideline the place of Islam in crafting appropriate legislation for a religious population?

As best I read the tea leaves, neither the Pledge of Allegiance nor Article Two are under serious threat. Yet religion can be a remarkable populist rallying cry, if cynically noted, or else touching the sensitive soul of a people, if sympathetically noted.

To delve into critique would require study of the depth of each nation’s legal code and respect for human rights. Yet do you as a reader find yourself in the general opinion of:

Removing both ‘under God’ and Article Two
Keeping both ‘under God’ and Article Two
Removing ‘under God’ but keeping Article Two
Keeping ‘under God’ but removing Article Two

What guides your choice? Particular religious leanings, consistency of principle, or clear differences in the two situations? What does your choice communicate about you?

Please feel free to vote, and to share your rationale in the comments.

Tags Anwar Sadat, Article Two, Egypt, NBC, Pledge of Allegiance

Prayers

Friday Prayers for Egypt

God,

As things grow more complicated, prayers become more simple: Give Egypt a good government, a good president. Help the people to live in peace. Help them to be united. Grant each one to help.

It is repetitious, God. We pray you are pleased with steadfastness. Grant our request, God, even as we know this prayer must continue for a long time yet. Help us not to tire, or to grow dull.

Bless those who have not tired, nor grown dull. By all accounts these are sacrificing to keep their nation on the right path. Yet not all account them so, and who knows but there may be merits in their doubts. They are young, perhaps foolish; we pray they may not be selfish, nor manipulators. Keep Egypt first in their hearts; keep them pure, keep them honorable. Not a few recent events suggest some may be otherwise.

Bless those who oppose them, God. Bless those who tire of them. Help each to find that which in the other is good. Trust is dissipating quickly, God. Prevent the coming days from devolving into a struggle for interests. Yet what of trust is revolution? Revolution destroys the institutions of trust, even if for good. Help all parties to build trust, since so little of it existed previously. Trust involves risk, and risk invites loss, hurt, and betrayal.

Men are not angels, God; perhaps trust is too much to ask. Give wisdom, then, to help all parties discern who loves their nation, and who is working for their own interest. Both cooperation and competition are desired, but may the duplicitous on all sides be exposed.

Grant special wisdom and patience, God, to the leaders. Their integrity is called into question by many. Only you know the hearts of men, God, but make these hearts pure and resolute. May they not return insult for insult, but blessing. They have been given a heavy trust; may they bear it with gravity. May it not become a burden. May their love for their nation lighten this load.

God, you know the demands of the people: Justice, freedom, dignity. May these come to pass, and may love, chivalry, and respect be added to them. Make Egypt, great, God. Make her people deserving of her.

Amen.

Tags Egypt, Prayer

Arab West Report Middle East Published Articles

In Memoriam: Dr. Ahmed al-Sayih, Azhar Scholar

Post author By Jayson
Post date July 13, 2011
No Comments on In Memoriam: Dr. Ahmed al-Sayih, Azhar Scholar

Fully deserving of his many titles, the glorious scholar and professor, Dr. Ahmad Abd al-Rahim al-Sayih passed away on July 7, 2011, fully engaged in life at the age of 74. Dr. al-Sayih died while filming an interview for the revolutionary-born al-Tahrir Television channel, speaking about his lifelong efforts in international popular diplomacy, to display a peaceful image of Islam and Egypt wherever he went. The world will miss him, his sharp mind, and his openness to people of all faiths.

Dr. al-Sayih was born in 1937 in Ezbet al-Sayih, a community roughly thirty kilometers from Nag Hamadi in the governorate of Qena, in Upper Egypt. Late in his life Nag Hamadi witnessed the horrific killing of six Christians and a Muslim police guard on Coptic Christmas Eve in 2010, an infamous incident which raised questions about Muslim-Christian relations. Dr. al-Sayih’s interaction with Christians, however, was completely different. He was a member of the noble Qulaiyat branch of the Arab tribe, and grew up with warm, friendly relations with the five or six Christian families of Ezbet al-Sayih. As he matured in his studies these Christians proudly recognized him as ‘our’ sheikh. Following the murders he helped organize an interfaith delegation from the Moral Rearmament Association to visit the families of those killed, explore the cultural environment of the crime, and discuss ways to overcome the national tragedy.

The journey Dr. al-Sayih pursued, however, did not begin as it ended, with real exposure to and open embrace of the Copts of Egypt. Though never an extremist, he pursued his studies with Muslim particularity, coming to master Islamic doctrine and philosophy after leaving his village and enrolling in the Azhar University. After several years he engaged in a professor exchange program, teaching five years in the Faculty of Sharia Law at the University of Qatar. Here his scholarly insight took the attention of the prestigious Umm al-Qurra University in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, but contractual regulations with the Azhar required him to first complete his doctorate while teaching at the Cairo-based institution. After obtaining his PhD in Islamic doctrine and philosophy in 1986 from the Azhar, serving as dean in the Faculty of Da’wa (the Islamic Missionary Call), he accepted the post in Mecca, where he taught for nine years.

After many years of exposure to religious thought in the Gulf, however, Dr. al-Sayih began to grow increasingly uncomfortable with its extremist Islamic trends, especially Wahhabism. Wahhabism is an austere interpretation of Islam, seeking imitation of the manner of life as lived by the Prophet Muhammad and his companions. Unfortunately, it often results in a reactionary attitude to modern life, as well as rejection of other viewpoints and commonality with other religions. With growing awareness of the danger Wahhabism proved to authentic Islam, Dr. al-Sayih dedicated his life to exposing its errors.

This zeal resulted in a scholarly output of over 150 books and hundreds of articles written for Arabic journals around the world. Some of these books were co-authored by such luminaries as Dr. Ahmed Shawqy al-Fangary, Dr. Abdel Fatah Asaker, Dr. Rifaat Sidi Ahmed, Dr. Mohammed al-Halafawy and Sheikh Nasr Ramadan Abdel Hamid. His boldness in critiquing Wahhabism led also to the finding that much of what is attributed to Islam today is actually based on pious misunderstandings from poorly transmitted hadith, the stories recorded of Muhammad’s words and deeds. Never one to shy from controversy, Dr. al-Sayih was committed to discovering and teaching the truth as it revealed itself, finding in this the path to God.

Though he never committed himself to an actual spiritual guide or designated path, Dr. al-Sayih found sympathy with the Sufi interpretation of Islam. Over the course of his life, he attended over fifty international Sufi conferences, promoting an open and tolerant picture of Islam. This was more than a simple intellectual position. Dr. al-Sayih visited Makarious Monastery in Wadi Natroun, Egypt, and prayed over the grave of John the Baptist and the Prophet Elisha. He esteemed the monks there to be the truest of Sufis, who represent the best of Islam.

Furthermore, Dr. al-Sayih’s openness towards Copts facilitated his frequent collaboration with Arab West Report. Together they found commonality in the belief that Islam is not to blame for the often true difficulties Copts face in Egypt, but rather the ill interpretation of Islam which exasperates social tensions, giving ordinary community problems a religious face. This phenomena is often made worse when these tensions are manipulated by politics or religion. Dr. al-Sayih’s contribution toward promoting Coptic understanding in Egypt resulted in his commendation by no less an organization than Copts United, an American based group highlighting Christian difficulties in Egypt. Following the death of the Grand Sheikh of the Azhar, Mohammed Sayyid Tantawi, Copts United nominated him for succession.

Dr. Ahmad al-Sayih leaves behind a wife, three sons, and five daughters. He was buried in his village of Ezbet al-Sayih, and on July 12 received a commemorative farewell in Al Rashdan Mosque in Nasr City, near his home in Cairo. He was a man of both great mind and great heart, and will be missed by all who knew him. May Egypt produce similar scholars, who are able to follow in his footsteps.

Tags Ahmed al-Sayih, Al-Azhar University, Copts, Egypt, Makarius Monastery, Nag Hamadi, Umm al-Qurra University, Wahabism

Personal

Making Sense of Syria

Much of the world has been aghast at news coming out of Syria, as the demonstrations now common in much of the Arab world have been brutally suppressed. Government sources, however, claim they are fighting an armed insurgency. Media, notably, has been blocked from the country, lending credibility to the idea that the government has something to hide.

We have been in Jordan for a short visit, and while here I was able to meet with a Syrian Christian resident in Amman. She is originally from Allepo, and was able to provide some of her perspective on the matter. It is only one opinion, of course, but provides a local perspective that goes beyond claims and counter-claims. For a good journalistic account of Syria, here is a link from The Economist. Here is another account from Christianity Today, focusing on the Syrian Christian perspective. It will resemble much of what follows.

The source, who preferred not to be named, will be called Samiya. She did not believe she was under any suspicion, but was planning a trip to Syria to take care of some administrative matters, and thought best to keep her name out of the news.

In short, Samiya believed both accounts to be true. The Syrian people have been steadfast in their peaceful protest for national reform. The government has been countering this group with violent repression, but as in protests elsewhere, they carry on.

At the same time, certain groups within Syria have undertaken violent militia action against the regime, and have mixed in with the protestors. These have been putting certain villages under pressure, and the Syrian army has had several bloody encounters with them. Samiya believed Jisr al-Sughur, on the Turkey border not far from Aleppo, fell into this category.

Within this struggle, she believed, lies were being told on both sides. Certainly the government is not being honest concerning its suppression of peaceful protest, using the militias as an excuse for further crackdown. Yet the tales of horror have also been exaggerated by the reform party. Several weeks ago a terrible tale spread on the internet about a boy who had died in the hands of security, revealing severe torture and mutilation of his body. Samiya, however, heard statements from relatives in the boy’s family, stating that while the boy did die at the hands of security, the torture marks were administered after he was handed over to his family. They (or those within the violent opposition) desecrated him in an effort to rally more of the population against the regime.

Samiya believed these militia groups, and the families associated with them, were hardline Sunni/Salafi parties funded and encouraged by Saudi Arabia. Knowing Syria to be a key ally of Iran, Saudi Arabia would greatly wish to see the fall of the regime. In the aftermath, the minority Shia Alawite autocratic rule would give way to some sort of Sunni governance. This would also likely lead to an end of funding of the Hizbollah party in Lebanon; interestingly, the head of Hizbollah is among the only personalities to rally to the defense of the regime.

Though they have not rallied to the defense, Samiya understands Israel, oddly enough, to quietly resist the fall of the regime. Though Syrian political rhetoric is strongly anti-Israeli, there has been almost no conflict on Israel’s northern border during the Bashar al-Assad presidency. While Syria does support Hizbollah, Samiya claimed this was to create a resistance force on the border against possible Israeli expansion. Lebanon is a weak government, and Hizbollah makes difficult any future advance into Beirut – which Israel has attacked before. From there, it is only a few dozen kilometers to Damascus. In any case, while Israel considers Hizbollah a thorn in its side, it fears more greatly the chaos which might prevail should the regime fall. As with worries in Egypt, better the enemy you know, than the one you don’t.

Samiya believed that one of the reasons for Western hesitation in Syria reflects the above difference in perspective. Many believe that politics in the Middle East is orchestrated around the US-Saudi Arabia-Israel alliance. Within this set-up, Egypt is largely a pawn (though possibly now seeking more independent foreign policy), Turkey is an emerging player, and Iran is the enemy. During the Egyptian revolution the US was quick to call for the fall of Mubarak, trusting that Egypt would remain within this overall structure.

Yet with Syria, the United States finds itself between two allies. Saudi Arabia would like the Iranian ally to fall, while Israel is reticent. American equivocation can be explained by its middle position between the two. It may well be the future of Syria lies mainly in the hands of the Assad family and the protestors against it. But it also may be the future will be shaped by the direction the United States eventually leans.

As for the actual interaction between the Assad family and the protestors, Samiya believed that Bashar was not naturally a butcher, and was not the prime mover behind the repression. Rather, she believed that however he may desire to reform (though he has had several years to do so previously), family military and business forces cannot contemplate losing the primary role the Alawites maintain in society. In this repression, then, Bashar is complicit, but also too weak to do anything otherwise.

Finally, Samiya spoke of the Christian participation in the demonstrations. They have been present, but many Christians have been reluctant to speak against the regime. The Alawite minority has ruled Syria by co-opting other minority groups, including Christians, and backing the dominant Sunni upper-to-middle class. Some fear there could be sectarian war against Alawites, Christians, and Druze, should chaos grip the state while a power vacuum sorts itself out.

Samiya played down this possibility, but did state her personal preference for the regime to stay while carrying out significant reforms that would change the system over time, though democratic participation. The regime is brutal, and Samiya could not understand why more Christians, on humanitarian grounds, did not enroll in greater numbers within the peaceful demonstrations. Reform is absolutely necessary, but many Christians are standing on the sidelines.

To repeat the earlier warning, it should be understood that Samiya is only a source – outside of the country at that – and does not fully understand what is happening within Syria. Her perspective, however, helps put together information that come through piecemeal in the headlines. In truth, a jigsaw puzzle has only one correct solution, but until all pieces are collected, multiple constructed realities are possible.

May God grant peace to the Syrian people and bring about a just resolution with as little bloodshed as possible. As it is already too late, may forgiveness and grace characterize all parties in the days to come.

Tags Bashar al-Assad, Iran, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Syria

Prayers

Friday Prayers for Egypt

God,

Tension, excitement, controversy, conspiracy, violence, zeal, folly, persistence, desperation, frustration, confusion. It is difficult to describe all the adjectives experienced in Egypt right now. What will today bring? Thousands will gather across the nation, as they did during the revolution. The police are withdrawing; threats are present. Maybe nothing will happen; maybe today could be monumental – for either good or bad.

God, you know the hearts of all; you determine the course of nations. Give peace to Egypt – to Tahrir, to Alexandria, to Suez. Protect them who have gathered; give them wisdom and mercy.

So much is confusing, God, protect the hearts of all, first and foremost. May they have your zeal for righteousness. May they have your mercy for sinners. May they have your grace towards those who stand in opposition. May they have your wisdom to navigate the challenges ahead of them.

God, many demonstrators suspect their leaders, while much of the population still thanks them for preserving Egypt from a fate like Syria. They are the only order left, and their promises are to return power to civilians. God, they need wisdom more than most. A protestor can afford to press forward recklessly, and to some degree needs to. But a leader must survey the whole situation.

God, you know their hearts. Bless them and guide them to bring about your best society. May they be faithful to their charge, faithful to the people, seeking the good of Egypt, but of none in particular.

Much fury, God, falls on the police. Manipulated for decades to serve the regime, they stand in the middle of so many factions, which does not mean necessarily that they stand aloof. But neither are they monolithic. Help those angry with them to differentiate between the system – still in need of reform – with the individuals – many in need of forgiveness. May those police of pure heart distinguish themselves; may they ensure the good conduct of their colleagues.

God, almost all political forces have come to demonstrate today. It is good they keep the unity of the moment, but much divides them. Keep these forces safe, even from one another. The scene is charged, God; misunderstandings may be common, and provocation possible. May they not implode from the pressures.

God, nearly all praise the revolution, but a revolutionary spirit is dangerous. You are pleased when men seek justice, but it so easily transforms into a lack of love. Love, meanwhile, can so easily be exploited. There is much love for the nation, but this can be pressed by contrary visions for her good. Let their love be for righteousness, for goodness, for mercy, for forgiveness – and may wisdom show them how to apply these for the sake of Egypt. Revolutions may fail, God, but love will not.

But love may suffer. Today, God, may they not. Keep them safe. Build Egypt once again. Preserve this nation in dignity, with all her people.

Tags Egypt, Prayer

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Related articles

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this: