By Shaykh Abdul Qayum
13 December 2024

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With the momentous and long-awaited change unfolding in Syria over the past week, I want to speak about what this means for this blessed land, and what our Islamic teachings tell us about times of great transformation in Bilad al-Sham.

Syria holds a unique place in our tradition. Through authentic hadith, we know that Prophet Muhammad ﷺ spoke with great reverence about Bilad al-Sham – a region far greater than modern-day Syria, encompassing also Jordan, Palestine, and Lebanon. When I reflect on why this land was specifically praised as blessed, the events of this past week take on even deeper significance.

The changes we’re witnessing remind me of the Qur’anic verse from Surah Ibrahim (14:46):

And verily they plotted their plot, and with Allah is their plot, even though their plot was such as to move mountains.

This verse speaks to the fundamental truth – that no matter how powerful or unshakeable the rule of a despot and oppressor may seem, Allah's will ultimately prevails.

Another verse that keeps coming to my mind this week is from Surah Hud (11:102):

And such is the seizure of your Lord when He seizes the cities whilst they are committing wrong. Indeed, His seizure is painful and severe.

Looking at Syria’s history, particularly these past decades, we see how this verse resonates with truth.

When I think about the immense suffering the Syrian people have endured, I’m reminded of what the Qur’an teaches us about hardship. Allah tells us in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:155):

Surely We shall test you with something of fear and hunger and loss of wealth and lives and fruits.

Through these tests, The Almighty distinguishes those who remain steadfast in their faith despite trials and tribulations.

I find comfort in the hadith where the Prophet ﷺ spoke about Damascus and its surroundings, explaining how Allah had given him a special guarantee regarding the people of Sham. In another hadith, the Prophet ﷺ warns that if the people of Syria deviate from the straight path, there would be no goodness left in the ummah – revealing how deeply connected this region is to the fate of all Muslims.

There’s a beautiful hadith that gives me hope: “Allah grants respite but does not neglect.” While justice may take time, it is certain. As Allah tells us in Surah Al-A‘raf (7:183):

I shall give them time; indeed, My plan is firm.

Looking ahead to Syria’s future, I take heart in the Prophet’s ﷺ words about a group of true believers who would remain steadfast in Syria until the Day of Judgement, holding firm to the truth despite the challenges they face. This shows us that truth and justice will always have steadfast defenders in this blessed land.

The weight of Syria’s significance in our tradition makes these events deeply meaningful for Muslims worldwide. The Prophet ﷺ specifically encouraged believers to live in Sham – a reminder of its special place in Islam. Those who have endured hardship with patience, maintaining their commitment to justice, hold a special place with Allah.

As these historic changes unfold in Syria, I remind myself and all Muslims that we cannot be mere spectators. Our faith demands we actively stand for justice against oppression. And when it comes to Syria and its neighbouring lands, this responsibility weighs even heavier upon us, for Allah himself has blessed Bilad al-Sham with a special status

May Allah grant peace and security to the people of Syria in this period of great change and uncertainty. May He unite their hearts, guide them to establish justice in their land, and grant them the strength, wisdom and patience to overcome the challenges that lie ahead.

Ameen

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