ZAMBOANGA CITY (MindaNews / 29 December) — Assalammualaykum. December 25 marks not only a significant date for many around the globe who celebrate Christmas but also a poignant reminder for those of us who observe the ongoing suffering and bloodshed faced by our brothers and sisters in Palestine. This date, which is traditionally associated with joy and festivity in many cultures, resonates differently for those who experience the harsh realities of displacement and violence. As Muslims, especially from Mindanao, we stand in solidarity with the oppressed and acknowledge the profound impact of this date beyond the commercial celebrations that dominate the narrative.
In our Muslim tradition, we honor and respect Prophet Isa (Alayhi Salam), known to Christians as Jesus Christ. We recognize his teachings of compassion, justice, and love for humanity. Yet, it is difficult to reconcile the celebration of his birth with the tragic circumstances in which many of his followers find themselves, particularly those in Palestine. How can we celebrate a day that symbolizes hope and joy while so many in the land of his birth are subjected to violence, oppression, and loss? The irony is stark, and the hypocrisy, as I perceive it, is overwhelming.
For Palestinian Christians, December 25 is not merely a day of celebration; it is a painful reminder of their continued struggle. Many are barred from visiting Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus, due to restrictions imposed by an ongoing occupation. Churches have been bombed, traditions are under threat, and the very identity of the Palestinian people is at risk of being erased. It is disheartening to witness those who claim to love Jesus engaging in festivities while ignoring the cries for justice and peace that emerge from the land he once walked. The decorations adorning homes and streets stand in stark contrast to the destruction and despair faced by countless individuals and families.
As we reflect on this day, it is crucial for all of us, regardless of faith, to embrace the essence of peace, dialogue, and harmony in our diverse world. We must channel our energies toward advocating for justice and supporting those who suffer. This Christmas, let us extend our prayers not only for our fellow Muslims in Palestine but also for our Christian brothers and sisters who are calling for their rights and dignity. Their struggle is not isolated; it is a universal human plight that transcends religious and cultural boundaries.
In this context, I encourage all to engage in meaningful conversations about the realities faced by people in conflict zones. Acknowledging suffering does not diminish the joy of celebration; rather, it enriches our understanding of humanity and fosters empathy. We must collectively work toward creating a world where all people can live in peace, free from violence and oppression.
As we remember December 25, let it not only be a day of merry celebrations for some but also a day of reflection and action for all. Let us stand in solidarity with those who suffer, advocating for their rights, amplifying their voices, and striving for a just world where harmony prevails over discord.
May we continue to pray for peace, justice, and reconciliation. May our hearts remain open to the plight of all humanity, recognizing that true love for one another transcends all boundaries.
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The concept of “PeaceScapes” urges us to look beyond our immediate interests and embrace a holistic view of our interconnectedness. It seeks to highlight an inclusive definition of peace in the Philippine context. Peace is contested by multiple meanings, which may stem from social and cultural contexts. Peace can suddenly disappear, even in places where peace is a longstanding norm. We, as people, have explored various aspects of peace, such as what it is and what it should be, as well as the different factors influencing the chances of achieving it.
(Maudi Maadil (a.k.a Algazelus) is a human rights advocate, humanitarian, and community development worker with over 14 years of experience in various projects and programs related to peace, security, and stability. He founded ProVolve Skills Bridge Inc., a 2024 Western Union Foundation Fellowship fellow powered by the Watson Institute, and an alumnus of the Geneva Centre for Security Policy. Email address: algazelusthesis@gmail.com)