The Silver Camel Humanitarian Award is a prestigious accolade presented by the Holy Orthodox Order of Saint George the Great Martyr, established by the Grand Knight in August 2024. This award seeks to honor the remarkable efforts of secular individuals, politicians, religious leaders, and organizations dedicated to promoting the human rights of Christians in the Holy Land and throughout the Middle East.
The camel symbolizes this award, embodying profound and diverse meanings:
Adaptability and Resilience
Renowned for their extraordinary ability to thrive in severe environments, camels endure extreme temperatures and can travel vast distances without water. This resilience reflects the awardees’ capacity to confront significant challenges, develop innovative solutions, and persist in their advocacy despite obstacles.
Humility and Willingness to Serve
Historically, camels have been depicted bearing heavy burdens while kneeling, representing humility and a genuine desire to assist others. This imagery celebrates those who, like the camel, carry the responsibilities of their communities and contribute selflessly to the welfare of society.
Strength and Endurance
Possessing exceptional fortitude, camels can survive long periods without nourishment while performing demanding tasks. This strength symbolizes the unwavering resolve of the award recipient(s), who tirelessly advocate for human rights and social justice in the face of adversity.
Gift of God
In Arab Bedouin culture, camels are called “Ata Allah,” meaning “Gift of God.” This designation highlights the vital resources they provide—food, milk, transportation, and clothing—essential for survival in desert arid landscapes. The Silver Camel Award recognizes those individuals and organizations that offer invaluable support and resources to those in need, embodying the essence of divine generosity and compassion.
The inaugural presentation of the Silver Camel Humanitarian Award is scheduled for September 2025, marking the beginning of a tradition that will honor and inspire those committed to safeguarding the rights of Christians in the Holy Land and wider Middle East. The honor of this award will serve as a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring spirit of those striving for justice, equality, and peace in the region.
The silver camel figurine awarded to recipients is crafted from pure sterling silver and adorned with genuine blue topaz, amethyst, citrine, peridot, and ruby gemstones. It weighs a total of 620 grams, or 1.36 pounds.