Shabo Bahé: A Beacon of Syriac Literature and Nationalism

Malfono Shabo Shimun Zaito, widely known as Shabo Bahé , was a distinguished Syriac poet and nationalist whose legacy profoundly shaped Syriac literature and cultural identity. Born in 1927 in Midyat, Tur Abdin, his family relocated to the Gozarto (Jazeera) Region during his early childhood, setting the stage for a remarkable journey in education, culture, and advocacy. 

Early Life and Education

Shabo Bahé completed his primary education in Syriac schools in Rish Ayno (Ras al-Ayn) and Hasakah, mastering Syriac, Arabic, and French. He later attended the American College in Holeb (Aleppo) but was forced to discontinue his studies after the ninth grade due to financial constraints. Despite this setback, his passion for knowledge and culture propelled him forward, proving that determination could overcome any obstacle.

Cultural and Nationalist Contributions

In 1947, Shabo Bahé began his teaching career, assigned by the Syriac Schools Committee in Zalin (Qamishli) to instruct primary classes. During this time, he was deeply influenced by the nationalist ideals propagated by Malfono (”Teacher”) Shukri Çarmukli, who in turn was inspired by the revolutionary teachings of the great Syriac leader Naum Faiq. These experiences strengthened his commitment to the Syriac identity, driving his involvement in cultural and community initiatives. 

In 1949, he joined the National or “Milli” Council in Zalin (Qamishli), and by 1954, he became a member of the Syriac Schools Committee’s administrative board. He also served on the administrative board of the Rafidain Sports Club, contributing to its cultural and athletic activities. Between 1955 and 1958, Shabo Bahé co-founded the “Rehmat Cito wa Leshono” Association, dedicated to promoting the Syriac language, supporting its writers, and providing free education in Syriac schools. With the approval of Syriac Orthodox Bishop Quriyakos, the association established a constitution reflecting its ambitious vision to preserve Syriac heritage.

Literary and Artistic Legacy

In 1962, Shabo Bahé began composing Syriac songs in the “Turoyo” dialect, addressing emotional, social, and nationalist themes. His first song, “O Lahdo,” was followed by “O Barsawmo” and “Safro m’Safro b’Safro,” recorded in Zalin (Qamishli) and widely celebrated. In 1968, he recorded his first vinyl record in Beirut, featuring “Hema w’Haye” and “Deqle Deqle o Noqusho,” performed by Syriac singer Artin Fistaqji with music by the Syrian Radio Orchestra in Holeb (Aleppo). His iconic songs “Shlomé Slomé”, “Zligé Frisi”, and especially “Kukwo d’Safro Habibto” (sung by Habib Mousa with melodies by composer Nuri Iskandar) remain beloved classics.  

Shabo Bahé wrote approximately 100 poems, 40 of which were transformed into songs recorded on vinyl, cassettes, and CDs. These were performed by prominent Syriac artists such as Aboud Zazi, Abdulahad Lahdo, Abdullah Rhawi, and female vocalists like Izla Issa and Juliana Ayoub. Renowned composers, including Nuri Iskandar and Gabi Masso, contributed to his works. 

Theater and Folklore

Shabo Bahé’s contributions extended beyond poetry to theater and folklore. In 1978, he wrote and directed the first Syriac-language skit, “Youth and Time,” performed at the Shaala Cultural Forum during the Saint Jacob Baradaeus festival. After migrating to Sweden in 1987 and settling in Södertälje, he continued his creative pursuits. In 1992, he authored the musical dance play “Qritho Gmerto,” directed by his son Hammurabi and performed at the People’s Theater in Södertälje. 

He also organized Syriac language courses, folklore events, and annual calendars for Syriac dioceses in Syria, noted for their innovative design and diversity.

Migration to Sweden and Legacy

In 1987, Shabo Bahé and his family migrated to Sweden, where he continued his cultural and literary work. Despite the challenges of displacement, he remained steadfast in his dedication to the Syriac cause. He passed away in 2012, leaving behind a rich cultural legacy embodied in his poetry, songs, and plays that continue to resonate with the Syriac people.

Conclusion

Shabo Bahé was more than a poet; he was a symbol of resilience and generosity. His heart, brimming with love for his people and culture, made him a pioneer in Syriac literature. From Zalin (Qamishli) to Holeb (Aleppo) and ultimately Sweden, he devoted his life to preserving the Syriac identity. His words and warm smile remain etched in the memory of those who knew him, a radiant flame in the conscience of the Syriac nation.

In this series

Abrohom Nuro: A Journey of Devotion to the Syriac Language and Heritage

Gabriel Asaad: Pioneer of Syriac Music and Voice of Identity

A Voice Unsilenced: The Journey of Saeed Malki 

The Light of the Gozarto: The Epic of Joseph Bahdi Keryo 

Mayada Bselis: The Authentic Syriac Voice and Pioneer of Syrian Art 

Selim Hanna: The Journey of a Syrian Syriac Artist in the World of Theater and Drama 

Iskander Aziz: An Icon of Syrian and Syriac Art 

Nouri Iskandar: Ambassador of Syriac Eastern Music and Chronicler of Its Heritage 

The Syriac Asfar-Najjar Family: pioneers of Syrian agriculture in a journey through time 

Youssef Abdelké: A Visionary Syriac Artist Blending Creativity and Commitment 

Yaqub Keryo: The Syriac Journalist and Thinker Who Carried the Torch of Nationalism and Culture 

Saeed Ishaq: The Silent Statesman Who Left His Mark on History 

The Saga of Bahdi Keryo: A Leader Forged in Fire 

Hanna Yaqub Abdulki (1877-1955): The Life of a Man Who Shaped History

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