Muslims in Syria begin Ramadan, the first since Assad family rule ended. Many eateries are closed during the day due to government mandates. Public fasting is strictly enforced, reflecting a major shift in societal norms post-Assad. Some businesses try to evade scrutiny while adhering to new rules. Observances begin similarly worldwide, with Lebanon marking Ramadan after a period of conflict.
In Damascus, some restaurants and coffee shops closed during the day on Saturday as Muslims began fasting for Ramadan, a significant religious period marking the first month without Assad family rule in decades. The transitional Ministry of Religious Endowments mandated that all eateries be shut during daylight hours to enforce public fasting, with strict penalties including potential imprisonment for those who transgress.
Despite these regulations, some businesses remained open, shielding their interiors from public view to avoid confrontation. With the overthrow of President Bashar Assad’s regime by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) in December, Syria has transitioned to an Islamist governance under Ahmad al-Sharaa, raising concerns about the potential for an Islamic state in the post-Assad era.
Historically under Assad, public eating during Ramadan was permissible, but this year many Syrians choose to fast discreetly to avoid repercussions. Hussam Haj-Hussein, the interim Minister of Religious Affairs, highlighted the new atmosphere, stating, “Ramadan this year comes with a new flavor. This is the Ramadan of victory and liberation.”
Countries like Saudi Arabia and Indonesia commenced Ramadan observance on the same day. Other regions began differing observances based on local lunar sightings, illustrating the diversity in Islamic practices worldwide. In Lebanon, Ramadan arrives post-war, marking a time for unity and reflection.
Damascus resident Munir Abdallah commented on the changes, noting that, “This year, after the fall of the regime, there are many confirmations regarding the prohibition of publicly breaking the fast.” He emphasized the importance of adhering to Ramadan traditions as a sign of respect for the holy month.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is centered around fasting during daylight hours, with the daily fast broken at sunset during the iftar meal, where Muslims gather with family. This period culminates with Eid al-Fitr, a major Islamic celebration.
The commencement of Ramadan in Syria signifies a pivotal change under Islamist governance, impacting traditional practices around fasting. The enforcement of public fasting restrictions reflects the new regime’s policies, aiming to uphold religious observance. As this month unfolds, the societal implications of these changes will become clearer, particularly in the context of religious freedoms and public behavior within the country.
Original Source: www.journalgazette.net
