Ahmed Shobier uses Juha folk tale to warn against seeking universal approval

Egyptian media personality Ahmed Shobier used the traditional folk tale of ‘Juha and his son and the donkey’ during a television appearance on Al Nahar channel to deliver a message regarding social pressure and public opinion.

Recounting the story, Shobier described how Juha and his son faced continuous criticism from different groups of people regardless of whether they rode the donkey, had the son ride, or both rode together. The tale concludes with the duo attempting to carry the donkey itself to satisfy everyone, only to face further ridicule.

Shobier used this allegory to warn viewers against the futility of trying to please everyone. He emphasized that constantly responding to the whims and criticisms of others can lead to indecisiveness and a loss of personal agency, advising individuals to stick to what they believe is right rather than becoming hostages to changing public opinions.