Poem – O Dust of the Earth, O My Grandfather (1)

Pope Shenouda III reflects on his early connection with Arabic poetry, beginning with the theme of man’s humble origin from the dust of the earth, and later deepening into a spiritual understanding of human dignity in the eyes of God.

Reflection on Human Origin:
In his early verses, he wrote about the humility of being made from earth, saying: “O dust of the earth, my ancestor and the ancestor of all, you are my origin, older than Adam in age.” This meditation reminds humans of their mortality and humble beginning.

Spiritual and Intellectual Growth:
As his knowledge of God grew, he realized that man is not merely clay, but a living soul, declaring: “I am not clay, but I dwell in clay; I am a spirit that came forth from the mouth of God.”

Spiritual Meaning:
The message balances humility and honor — the body may be dust, but within lies the breath of God. This divine image gives humans their true worth and calling.

Message:
We are called to live with humility while remembering our heavenly dignity — that our value lies not in our physical form, but in the divine spirit within us, which leads us back to God for eternal life.

For better translation support, please contact the center.