"The Battle of Karbala' still rages between the two sides in the present and in the future. It is being held within the soul, at home and in all areas of life and society. People will remain divided and they are either in the Hussain camp or in the Yazid camp. So choose your camp." — 'Ashura' banner in Manama, 2006
Sunday, December 16, 2012
National Day in Bahrain: Yet Another Thing People Can't Agree Upon
Although Bahrain formally gained independence from Britain on August 15, 1971, it marks its National Day--technically, "National Day and Day of Coronation"--on December 16, the day on which Sh. 'Isa officially assumed the throne. In protest of this seeming desire to elevate the monarchy above independence, members of the opposition (and probably others) routinely mark a shadow "National Day" on August 15 and deride that celebrated in December.
Thus has some poetic Bahraini photoshopper hit upon the following pun addressed to King Hamad: "The people wish you the best seat [jaloos] on the occasion of Coronation Day ['eid al-jaloos]."
And, on the other side, a National Day paean to King Hamad's sons Nasr and Khalid, who express their patriotism the old fashion way: by jumping out of an army helicopter:
The "national day" discussion is representative of the real problem in Bahrain, as is clear to anyone. On one side we have a regime that sees itself above all symbols and all symbols relating to it -- with their followers, and on the other people that see their struggles and sacrifices for a place for those that see the well-being of truth and their country's relation to it above all.
I agree, Their demands aren't reasonable like any one else in the world, they make things impossible for our beloved king (may Allah bless him with good health and a long life) to win the hearts of outsiders. lets say I'm one of hundred of thousands who wouldn't want any one else to rule our country. long live this king.
Justin,
ReplyDeleteThe "national day" discussion is representative of the real problem in Bahrain, as is clear to anyone. On one side we have a regime that sees itself above all symbols and all symbols relating to it -- with their followers, and on the other people that see their struggles and sacrifices for a place for those that see the well-being of truth and their country's relation to it above all.
Vive la révolution!
The King did alot of reforms that you will never appreciate cause your loyalty is to Iran! Screw you & Isa Qassim
ReplyDeleteI agree, Their demands aren't reasonable like any one else in the world, they make things impossible for our beloved king (may Allah bless him with good health and a long life) to win the hearts of outsiders. lets say I'm one of hundred of thousands who wouldn't want any one else to rule our country. long live this king.
Delete