Syrians Embrace Ramadan Under New Governance Following Assad Regime

This Ramadan, Syrian Muslims fast under a new Islamist government for the first time in decades, following the end of the Assad family’s rule. Stricter regulations prohibit public eating during fasting hours, resulting in a cautious atmosphere as citizens navigate new observances. Amidst these changes, an emphasis on traditional practices remains strong among the populace.

In Syria, the observance of Ramadan has taken on new significance this year, marking the first holy month without the Assad family’s rule in decades. The country continues to experience political upheaval following the overthrow of President Bashar Assad’s secular government by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham in December. This transition has resulted in new regulations enforced by the interim Ministry of Religious Endowments, which has directed that all restaurants and cafes remain closed during the daytime hours of fasting, imposing penalties for violations.

Some establishments remain open discreetly, with closed windows to prevent onlookers from seeing patrons inside. The new government, under Ahmad al-Sharaa, has fostered an environment of increased observance regarding fasting regulations. Fears surrounding public displays of eating and drinking during Ramadan have escalated among the population, compared to the more relaxed atmosphere during Assad’s regime.

Interim Minister of Religious Affairs Hussam Haj-Hussein referred to this year’s Ramadan as the “Ramadan of victory and liberation,” reflecting a sense of triumph for many Syrians. This year’s Ramadan coincides with observances in several other countries, including Saudi Arabia and Indonesia, while some, such as Malaysia and parts of Japan, will begin fasting a day later.

Local sentiments have shifted, with residents emphasizing the importance of adhering to Ramadan traditions out of respect for the holy month. Munir Abdallah, a Damascus resident, expressed that the current atmosphere necessitates full compliance with fasting customs. Ramadan spans the Islamic lunar calendar’s ninth month, with its start contingent upon the crescent moon’s sighting, and concluding with the celebratory Eid al-Fitr holiday.

As Syrian society navigates these changes, communal practices like iftar (the meal breaking the fast) and suhoor (the pre-dawn meal) take center stage, highlighting the renewed importance of religious observance amidst a backdrop of historical change.

This year, Ramadan in Syria is being observed under unprecedented circumstances following the regime change, resulting in stricter regulations concerning public conduct during fasting. The new government has emphasized the observance of Ramadan rituals, reflecting a shift towards a more religiously oriented societal structure. As Muslims around the world begin their observance of this holy month, Syria’s experience stands out as one of both renewal and challenge.

Original Source: www.journalgazette.net