Today is Coptic Christmas. Because of the difference between the Coptic and Gregorian calendars, Egyptian Orthodox Christians (or Coptic Christians) celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ on January 7th.
As all Coptic feasts, Christmas comes after a 43-day period of limited fasting (no animal products) called lent fasting, which commemorates the forty days of fasting Moses endured while receiving the Ten Commandments, as well as the three days of moving the mountain “El Mokkatam”. This fast lasts from November 25th until January 6th, though the majority of people only fast during the last week when, after the mass of the New Year, Christmas celebrations begin in earnest; families decorate their homes with lights and Christmas trees, cook special Christmas dishes, and send out Christmas cards. The Coptic Nativity itself is celebrated by a special church midnight service, followed by the ringing of church bells. The largest service is held by the Coptic Pope in Saint Mark's cathedral in Cairo, and is usually broadcast by Egyptian television. Special sweet bread called Qurban, decorated with a cross surrounded by twelve dots (representing the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ), is made for the Nativity, and given to people during the church service. Afterwards, families go home to break their fast, children receive new clothes and gifts, and today people visit family, friends and neighbors.
When I went over to the Shell shop across the street to get some soda earlier today, the Shell guy smiled at me and said (I had no idea he knew even one single word in English, so this was quite something in itself!) “Happy First Day!” I thought about this as I walked back. He obviously knows I’m Christian (as in non-Muslim), and he must have been referring to the Egyptian Orthodox Christmas. But why did he not say “Happy Christmas” – why “First Day?” The day that is celebrated is indeed the first day of the life of Jesus Christ; could that be it? Did he mean to say “birthday?” Or is it the first day of... what? I’m pretty sure I will never know what he meant for sure, but I still thought it was kind of cute, and as he very clearly went out on a limb to recognize me and honor what he expects is an important day for me, I certainly will not forget his greeting.
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4 comments:
Hi, I am american and live about an hour outside of Cairo with my husband and son.(Benha)
I too am christian, not orthodox(episcopal) and have noticed that egyptian people will go out on a limb to comfort you. Especially muslims.
I say this because when I celebrated xmas the 24th and 25th of December, his family celebrated with me.( They're muslim)! Also I have had people that my husband knew by face, wish me this as well.
I heard there were nice people here. Now I know!
that would be great to move after our xmas (24-26 of december in poland) to egypt and have the next xmas :O)
and for this guy maybe was easier to say "first day" - better to memorize :O) than "xmas"? who knows :O) but it's great they care about your feasts. do you remember about their ones? :O)
My guess is that what was intended is "Happy Feast Day."
With love in Christ,
Thomas
Orthodox Christian in Jacksonville, Florida
Yes, quite contrary to what many people believe, the religious climate here is indeed one of tolerance and respect, even encouragement. It's spiritually inspiring.
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