On this winter morning, the sea of Dbayeh (ضبية), Lebanon, at a depth of 60 meters, gifted me an encounter I’ll never forget. While diving along the rocky coast, I came face to face with a rare and fascinating creature—the Electric Ray, or as we call it in Arabic, سمكة الراي اللاسع الكهربي… the ra‘āda.
Its body was round and smooth, its tail short, with a distinct caudal fin. But what truly sets it apart is its hidden power: the ability to generate electric shocks. This is how it defends itself and paralyzes its prey. Watching it glide slowly over the seabed was like watching a secret of nature unfold before my eyes.
I admired it closely but with respect. The sea always reminds us—some creatures are not meant to be disturbed. After documenting the sighting, I carefully released it back into deeper waters, safe where it belongs.
That release was more than just a gesture—it was a message. Every marine creature, no matter how mysterious or intimidating, plays an essential role in the ocean’s balance. Our mission as fishermen, divers, and sea lovers is not only to enjoy these encounters but also to protect the marine world for future generations.
That day, 29 January 2025, the sea told me a story—of strength, electricity, and respect between man and nature.