Zajal – I Was in Exile (1)
Pope Shenouda III shares a personal experience with political parties, showing how he was once drawn to them but later realized that their polished words were empty illusions meant to deceive.
Spiritual and Intellectual Meaning:
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He begins by describing his sense of alienation and search for belonging, believing at first that political involvement might help serve his country.
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Over time, he discovered that many political slogans were nothing more than beautiful but hollow words.
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Through poetic expression, he says he was “drugged by eloquent words,” revealing how deceptive and persuasive such rhetoric can be.
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With honesty, he admits that he was once deceived, yet the experience taught him to trust only sincerity and pure motives.
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His reflection offers a wise lesson about discernment—encouraging people to think deeply and not be swayed by appearances or persuasive speech.
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This message embodies the Pope’s wisdom and humility, turning a personal experience into a universal moral teaching.
Faith Message:
Truth is not found in slogans or loud voices but in sincerity and the light of God within the heart. The believer must be wise—discerning truth from deception and seeking only what is right before God.
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