Syrians Observe Their First Ramadan Without Assad Family Rule

The first Ramadan in Syria without Assad’s rule sees mixed adherence to fasting. Some restaurants are closing, but others choose to stay open discreetly. The interim government has issued warnings, yet no formal rules have been enforced. The new leadership raises concerns over religious freedom, while Ramadan traditions continue amidst regional conflicts.

As Syria enters Ramadan for the first time without the Assad family’s rule, observant Muslims began their fast amid a backdrop of uncertainty. Some eateries in Syria remained closed during the daylight hours, while a few opened discreetly, shielding their interiors from public view. The interim Ministry of Religious Endowments has encouraged restaurants and cafes to respect fasting by closing during the day, warning of possible jail time for violators. However, no formal government mandate has been issued on the matter.

Following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime by insurgents, the newly established Islamist government led by Ahmad al-Sharaa has taken charge, raising apprehensions about the potential rise of an Islamic state. Although al-Sharaa has assured respect for religious minorities, many citizens feel restrained, abstaining from public eating to avoid possible repercussions. Hussam Haj-Hussein, the interim Minister of Religious Affairs, described this year’s Ramadan as, “this is the Ramadan of victory and liberation.”

Globally, Ramadan commenced on Saturday for most Muslim-majority countries, though some, including Malaysia and certain Shiite communities, will initiate fasting on Sunday. This observance coincides with significant regional events, including Lebanon’s recognition of Ramadan after a grueling conflict, and Palestinians in Gaza beginning their iftar amidst destruction. Ramadan, occurring in the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, begins after the crescent moon is sighted, leading to differing start dates among various communities.

The fast is broken daily at sunset with a meal called iftar, which gathers family and friends together. Prior to the fast, a predawn meal, known as suhoor, is consumed to prepare the body for the day ahead. During this holy month, many charitable organizations provide meals for those who are less fortunate, exemplified by the Sheikh Abdulqadir al Gailani Mosque in Baghdad, which plans to distribute 1,000 free meals daily to assist those in need.

This article highlights the unique context of Ramadan in Syria as the nation experiences its first observance free from Assad’s rule. While some establishments attempt to balance traditions with new restrictions, citizens face challenges related to public fasting. The implications of political changes on social practices and charitable actions during this holy month are profound, showcasing both continuity and change in Muslim communities across the globe.

Original Source: www.voanews.com