We Are Bullies by Nature

Written by Dr. Hamada Al-Antably

Since yesterday, bullying campaigns have been spreading across social media between Alexandrians and the rural folk (Al-Fallahin). The first group mocks the second because they are simple, act spontaneously, and their beachwear is no different from their underwear; while the second group attacks the first over the calls and marches of nighttime Takbeer (proclaiming “Allahu Akbar”) to confront Corona. They forgot that the ones who roast Alexandrians in the first place are the Cairenes, who themselves consider Alexandrians to be rural folk. In addition, both groups constantly roast Upper Egyptians (Al-Sa’ayda).

In short, we are a people who are bullies by nature; everyone makes fun of their brother for a flaw he has. By the way, if anyone tried to look at themselves in old pictures or stand in front of the mirror for a little while, it wouldn’t be far-fetched for them to bully themselves!

Folks, for God’s sake, this is a period when we should be standing by each other. Alexandrian, Cairene, Fallahi, Sa’eedi… what matters is that you are Egyptian and we are facing death together.

I think I don’t need to remind you of the incident during the era of the Prophet, peace be upon him, when an Anshari and a Muhajir quarreled. One said, “O Ansar!” and the other said, “O Muhajirin!” The Messenger (PBUH) replied, saying, “Is it a call of Jahiliyyah while I am still among you? Leave it, for it is foul.” By the way, that was an incident of bullying, but back then it was called tribal bigotry, which is one of the forms of bullying, along with many other pictures and scenes.

So please, let’s stand by each other and stop mocking and bullying one another so we can live a wonderful life and not all of us die. Have mercy on us, and straighten up, may God have mercy on you.

By Dr. Hamada Al-Antably