The History of Arab Mother’s Day (عيد الأم)

             Mother’s Day in the Arab world was first introduced by Mustafa Amin, an Egyptian journalist and writer, in 1956. Inspired by the global Mother’s Day movement, he advocated for a special day to honor mothers in Arab culture. Initially, the idea faced resistance, but it was later embraced, and March 21st—the first day of spring—was chosen to symbolize renewal, love, and appreciation for mothers.

Classical Arabic Poetry and the Reverence for Mothers

Poetry has been the backbone of Arab culture for centuries, and it’s no surprise that many classical Arabic poets have written about the unconditional love, strength, and sacrifices of mothers.

One of the most famous poets who wrote about motherhood is Al-Mutanabbi, one of the greatest Arab poets of all time. He beautifully described the depth of a mother’s love, often equating it to paradise, warmth, and eternal comfort.

Here’s an excerpt that reflects the pride and gratitude Arab poets expressed for their mothers:

“الأم مدرسةٌ إذا أعددتها

أعددت شعباً طيب الأعراقِ”

“A mother is a school; if you prepare her well,

You prepare an entire nation with noble roots.”

This famous verse by Hafez Ibrahim, another legendary Arabic poet, emphasizes the pivotal role of mothers in shaping future generations. In Arab culture, mothers are often seen as the foundation of the household, educators, and moral compasses, ensuring that values of honor, kindness, and wisdom are passed down through generations.

Many classical Arabic poems also highlight the sacrifices mothers make, often comparing them to rivers of endless giving or the light that never dims in a child’s life.

🎶 “ست الحبايب” (Sett El-Habayeb) – The Most Iconic Mother’s Day Song

If there’s one song that defines Mother’s Day in the Arab world, it is “ست الحبايب” (Sett El-Habayeb) by Fayza Ahmed. This song is synonymous with Mother’s Day celebrations, playing on repeat in Arab homes, schools, and public spaces every year on March 21st.

The song was written by Hussein El-Sayed, a well-known Egyptian lyricist, in the 1950s. The story goes that on the night before Mother’s Day, he realized he hadn’t prepared anything special for his mother. Feeling guilty, he sat down and began writing a heartfelt poem about a mother’s unconditional love and sacrifices.

He then rushed to composer Mohamed Abdel Wahab, who was so moved by the lyrics that he immediately composed the melody. Fayza Ahmed, known for her soft and emotional voice, recorded the song in one night, and by the next morning, it was played on Egyptian radio.

The song became an instant classic, touching the hearts of millions across the Arab world.

The lyrics of “ست الحبايب” (which translates to “The Dearest Mother”) beautifully express gratitude, love, and appreciation for mothers.

Here’s an excerpt from the song:

“ست الحبايب يا حبيبة

يا أغلى من روحي ودمي”

“The dearest mother, oh my beloved,

More precious than my soul and blood.”

The song acknowledges the hard work and sacrifices of mothers, thanking them for their patience, kindness, and endless love. It’s a tribute to the silent struggles mothers go through to raise their children and give them the best life possible.

Differences Between Arab & Western Mother’s Day

Unlike the U.S. (celebrated on the second Sunday of May) and other Western countries, Arab Mother’s Day is fixed on March 21st each year. It aligns with spring’s arrival, symbolizing life, growth, and unconditional love.

Looking for a special way to celebrate? Here are some personalized Arabic Mother’s Day gift ideas.

Mother’s Day in the Arab world is a time to show gratitude, love, and appreciation for the women who shape our lives. Whether through words, gifts, or simply spending time together, it’s a beautiful cultural tradition that reminds us of the importance of family and motherhood.