Publication date: 1980
Publisher: Téqui
ISBN: 2 85244 409 7

Detailed summary:

1- Historical Context of the Apparitions

The apparitions of the Virgin Mary of Zeitoun, a district in northern Cairo, Egypt, began on April 2, 1968. At that time, Egypt was experiencing political upheaval, particularly after the defeat in the Six-Day War in 1967, which left a sense of bitterness and despair among the population. In this context, the Virgin’s apparitions were perceived by many as a sign of hope and comfort.

The Coptic Church of the Virgin Mary, where these apparitions took place, was already a symbolic location. According to Christian tradition, the Holy Family had crossed Egypt to escape Herod’s persecution, making Egypt a land rich in biblical and spiritual significance.

2- Details of the Apparitions

The apparitions of Zeitoun began when Muslim workers reportedly saw a luminous figure resembling a woman standing on the church dome. Initially, they mistook her for someone attempting suicide. But when she disappeared and reappeared several times, the witnesses realized it was something supernatural.

Over the months and years, thousands of people gathered around the church to witness these apparitions, which were characterized by:

Luminous manifestations :

The Virgin Mary appeared in various forms as a bright silhouette floating above the church. Sometimes, she was surrounded by luminous doves, a traditional Christian symbol of the Holy Spirit.

Repetition of the phenomenon :

These apparitions occurred over several years (1968-1971), with frequent appearances, sometimes lasting several hours. This allowed large crowds to witness the event.

Absence of verbal messages :

Unlike famous apparitions such as Lourdes (France) or Fatima (Portugal), the Virgin Mary did not deliver any messages or words during these apparitions. The faithful interpreted her mere presence as a sign of divine intercession and blessing.

3- Testimonies and Recognition

What makes these apparitions particularly unique is that they were witnessed not only by Christians but also by Muslims and people of other various faiths.

The phenomenon was widely covered by Egyptian and international media. There were photographs and films of these manifestations, although the quality of this visual evidence is often debated.

Important religious figures, including Coptic Orthodox Pope Cyril VI, confirmed the authenticity of the apparitions. The Egyptian government also sent investigators to examine the events, and they found no rational or scientific explanation for these luminous manifestations, reinforcing the belief that it was a supernatural phenomenon.

4- Spiritual and Social Significance

A message of hope and comfort after the military defeat of 1967 and the ensuing economic difficulties. It was seen as a sign of divine presence amidst the country’s trials.

A symbol of unity between Egypt’s various religious communities, all of whom witnessed the apparitions.

A reinforcement of the faith of Coptic Christians, who often face marginalization as a religious minority in Egypt.

International impact :

The phenomenon attracted international attention, sparking the curiosity of pilgrims and researchers from around the world. The apparitions were documented in both religious and secular publications, giving Zeitoun particular importance in the narrative of Marian apparitions.

Conclusion

In his book, Michel Nil emphasizes the importance of these apparitions as both a religious and socio-political phenomenon. He analyzes the repercussions of these events on Christian faith as well as on relations between Christians and Muslims in Egypt. By focusing on eyewitness accounts and visual evidence, he explores how these apparitions have shaped the spiritual landscape of Egypt.