Azzam... A Knight Disembarks

Author: رامي مهداوي

When great men depart, they are never forgotten; their stories become luminous pages passed down from generation to generation. This is true for the departure of Azzam Dahiliya from Shweika, who was bid farewell by the Tulkarem governorate with profound sadness, recalling his stature in the community and his loyalty to his family and village.

Azzam was one of the men of Shweika who embodied the authentic values of the Palestinian village: simplicity in living, generosity in giving, and a deep attachment to the land and its people. He was not just a name in the community but a constant presence in celebrations and events, a support to family and friends, and a sincere voice that united rather than divided.

In his features, one sees the image of the son of the authentic village: a serious leader, close to the people, present in their joys and sorrows, never delaying to support the needy or comfort the distressed. He was among those whose names conjured the meaning of nobility and manliness, as his name in Tulkarem was associated with goodness, virtue, and good relations.

The people of Tulkarem knew him by his ever-present smile and his dedication to keeping the social fabric intact despite the hardships faced by the homeland. He exemplified the man who believes that the strength of the village lies in its unity and that a person's value is in their impact, thus becoming one of the most prominent social figures respected widely.

Azzam was not just a social man; he was also a son of the Palestinian national movement, belonging to Fatah, which provided him with a framework for struggle and national work. During the first Intifada, he was present in the field, participating in popular events and defending the rights of his people, believing that struggle is not just slogans but a daily commitment and a steadfast stance. With the outbreak of the second Intifada, he continued his presence and participation, contributing to the resilience of the people and adhering to his principles until the end of his life. He remained known in Tulkarem as a loyal Fatah supporter who combined national belonging with social work, embodying the model of a man who serves his country and its people both in the field and in daily life.

Shweika today mourns one of its pillars and misses a voice that filled the place with warmth and presence. However, the greatest solace is that Azzam did not truly leave; what he left behind in good impact and values sown in his children, friends, and the people of his village will endure as long as memories last. True men do not disappear with physical absence; they remain alive in their deeds and conduct and in the seeds of goodness they have planted.

Azzam has departed, but his memory will remain present in popular memory, in the conversations of gatherings, and in the stories of those who knew him closely. Azzam was one of those men whose mention brings forth goodness and fills hearts with comfort and peace.

The departure of Azzam Dahiliya is not just a loss for his family and loved ones but a loss for a social symbol who carried the values of the authentic Palestinian village and reflected them in his daily conduct and strong relationships with people. In his name, we are reminded that men who leave a legacy of virtue and love remain alive in the hearts of people despite their absence.
His loss is a loss for Shweika village and all of Tulkarem, but the greatest comfort is that the values of nobility and loyalty he planted will remain enduring through his children, friends, and the people of his village. Men who build bridges of love among people do not disappear with the departure of their bodies; they remain alive through the legacy and fragrant biography they leave behind.

Peace be upon his kind soul, and may God's mercy envelop him, and sincere condolences to his honorable family, the people of our town Shweika, and all who knew him. Azzam Dahiliya will remain a testament that true men do not leave but disembark, leaving behind a legacy of love and loyalty that is passed down through generations.