What Means the Word "Ragias" and Who Can We Refer to Today as "Ragiades"?
The word "ραγιάς" has its roots in the Ottoman era, symbolizing the subjugation and humiliation of Greeks under foreign rule. Derived from the Ottoman term raʿiyyah (subjects or flock), it referred to the Christian and Jewish populations living under the yoke of the empire. For centuries, "ραγιάς" meant submission, acceptance of oppression, and a passive existence devoid of freedom or dignity.
During the Greek War of Independence, the term became a rallying cry against oppression. The revolutionaries rejected the identity of the "ραγιάς" and fought to reclaim their autonomy as Έλληνες (Hellenes)—a people proud, free, and determined to shape their destiny. Yet, while the term "ραγιάς" may seem like a relic of history, its spirit lingers today in a different form.
Who Are the "Ragiades" of Today?
In modern Greece, we no longer have Ottoman rulers, but we do have individuals and groups who exhibit the same submissive, self-serving, and passive behavior that "ραγιάς" once symbolized. Today’s "ραγιάδες" are not oppressed by an external empire—they willingly surrender their dignity and the nation’s sovereignty for their own interests.
Let’s speak plainly: many who identify with or vote for New Democracy embody the modern "ραγιάς" mindset. They turn a blind eye to corruption, tolerate the erosion of national sovereignty, and accept policies that harm Greece’s long-term future—all because they prioritize personal gain or short-term benefits over the collective good.
The Image of Shame: Gerapetritis(Minister of Foreign Affairs) Bowing to Erdogan
The Traits of Modern "Ragiades"
Acceptance of Corruption:
Many voters support a government that perpetuates corruption and mismanagement because they hope to benefit personally—be it through connections, job security, or contracts. Like the "ραγιάδες" of the past, they submit to the system, so long as their own needs are met.Indifference to National Sovereignty:
Just as the "ραγιάς" accepted foreign rule, today’s "ραγιάδες" allow foreign powers, multinational corporations, and financial institutions to dictate Greece’s policies. Whether it’s the sale of national assets or the undermining of Greek independence, they look the other way.Passive Obedience:
Instead of questioning the government’s actions or demanding accountability, they justify every misstep. They follow orders, no matter how detrimental, because confrontation or change seems too uncomfortable.Betrayal of National Interest:
Perhaps the gravest sin of the modern "ραγιάδες" is their willingness to sacrifice the country’s future for their own immediate interests. They sell out Greece piece by piece, abandoning the ideals of independence and self-respect that our ancestors fought for.
A Call to Reject the "Ragias" Mentality
The Greek revolutionaries of 1821 fought to shed the label of "ραγιάς" and reclaim their dignity. They didn’t fight and die for Greece to be ruled by a new class of submissive, self-serving "ραγιάδες" who prioritize personal gain over patriotism.
If you see yourself reflected in this description, it’s time to wake up. Greece needs citizens who will stand up for its sovereignty, demand transparency, and refuse to accept a government that serves foreign interests or enriches the few at the expense of the many.
Don’t let history repeat itself. Don’t be a "ραγιάς" in the land of Hellenes.
