The poem “Rivers Flow Around Him” was written by His Holiness Pope Shenouda III around 1940–1941, during his high school years. It was inspired by his observation of the stark contrast between the very rich and the very poor — those who live in abundance while others beside them suffer hunger and need.

🌿 Main Idea:
The poem portrays the tragedy of a poor man surrounded by wealth. Rivers flow around him with sweet waters, yet he remains thirsty, unable to drink even a drop. It is a moving image of the injustice and emptiness that exist within society.

💫 Spiritual Dimension:
Beyond material poverty, the poem also speaks of spiritual thirst. A person may be surrounded by all worldly comforts but still lack inner peace. True satisfaction comes only from God, the source of living water who quenches the soul’s deepest thirst.

🔥 Human Reflection:
Through simple yet profound words, the young Pope expresses deep empathy for human suffering and calls for compassion and justice. The pain described is not mere complaint but a contemplation of life’s deeper meaning and the illusion of earthly wealth.

💖 Final Message:
“Rivers Flow Around Him” reminds us that happiness is not measured by possessions but by the peace within. Those who live apart from God remain thirsty, even if surrounded by flowing rivers.

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