Here are two versions of a song I created in honor of Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, a Palestinian pediatrician and neonatologist who served as the director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in the Gaza Strip from February 2024 until its evacuation in December 2024. He was arrested shortly thereafter and has been detained without charge in Ofer Prison. I think of him and his family often and pray for his immediate release.

Peace, MAA

(Verse 1) In Gaza’s dust, where the brave still stand, lived a healer with a steady hand. Dr. Hussam, with a soul so kind, gave his life to heal, to bind.

He walked through rubble, grief, and flame. Each child he saved, he knew by name. But now he lies in a silent room, A hero caught in shadows and gloom.

(Chorus) Oh, Dr. Hussam, your light still glows, though behind cold bars and heavy blows. They tried to break what they can’t define— A heart of steel, a will divine. Though tortured, wounded, still you rise, Your truth shines bright in darkened skies.

(Verse 2) They took his hands, but not his grace, tried to erase a sacred place. Through brutal nights and endless pain, His spirit holds what chains can’t claim.

No courtroom heard, no justice spoke, but hope was born in every stroke. Each patient he once held and healed now carries on what he revealed.

(Chorus) Oh, Dr. Hussam, your light still glows, though behind cold bars and heavy blows. They tried to break what they can’t define— A heart of steel, a will divine. Though tortured, wounded, still you rise, Your truth shines bright in darkened skies. (Bridge) Let the world not turn its face, while silence haunts this sacred place. May your pain be not in vain. Let freedom wash away the stain.

(Final Chorus) Oh, Dr. Hussam, we speak your name, with tears and pride, with love and flame. Your fight is ours, your dream won’t fade, your sacrifice will not be betrayed. A healer in chains, but not alone— the world will hear, the truth be known.

Version 1

Version 2