Every year on March 21, families across the Arab world celebrate Mother’s Day with flowers, gifts, and heartfelt gatherings. It’s a day dedicated to honoring the sacrifices and love of mothers. But why this date?
Unlike Western Mother’s Day, which varies by country, March 21 has a special significance in the Arab world. It has deep historical roots and a story tied to one journalist’s mission to give mothers the recognition they deserve.
The Story Starts With a Journalist and a Mom With a Broken Heart
In the 1950s, Mustafa Amin, one of the founders of Akhbar Al-Youm newspaper and a well-known Egyptian journalist, championed the idea of a national Mother’s Day.
The inspiration came from a heartbreaking encounter. A woman visited his office and shared her story—she had sacrificed everything to raise her children after becoming a widow. Once they grew up and started their own lives, they abandoned her.
Her pain struck a chord with Amin, and he wrote about it in his column “Fikra”, arguing that mothers should have a dedicated day of appreciation. Public support grew, and in 1956, Egypt officially recognized March 21 as Mother’s Day. The tradition quickly spread across the Arab world, becoming a cherished annual celebration.
Why March 21st? A Symbol of Renewal
The choice of March 21 wasn’t random. It marks the first day of spring, a season of renewal and growth. Just as spring represents new beginnings, mothers symbolize nurturing, care, and the cycle of life. This connection between nature and motherhood made the date the perfect tribute, blending history, symbolism, and modern appreciation.
There Was a Brief Attempt to Replace Mother’s Day
Despite its popularity, Mother’s Day faced an unexpected challenge. After Amin was accused of espionage in the 1960s, the Egyptian government attempted to rename the holiday “Family Day.”
Officials wanted to distance the celebration from his legacy, but Egyptian mothers refused to accept the change. Letters poured in from across the country, demanding the original name be reinstated. Their voices were heard, and Mother’s Day was restored, proving just how powerful the influence of mothers could be.
Ancient Egyptians Honored Mothers Long Before This Holiday Existed
While Arab Mother’s Day was officially established in the 20th century, the tradition of honoring mothers isn’t new. Ancient Egyptians revered motherhood, as seen in temple carvings and statues depicting maternal figures.
The goddess Isis, known as the ultimate mother, was worshiped for her nurturing and protective qualities. Annual ceremonies celebrated her, with flower-filled boats drifting along the Nile to symbolize renewal and life. March, marking the arrival of spring, became the perfect time to honor mothers as givers of life.
A Special Day with Deep Roots
Mother’s Day in the Arab world isn’t just a commercial holiday; it’s a tribute to history, a symbol of gratitude, and a reminder of the sacrifices mothers make. Whether inspired by ancient traditions, a journalist’s mission, or a mother’s unwavering love, the day carries deep meaning. So, how will you celebrate the mothers in your life today?
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