The first Ramadan without the Assad family rule in decades commenced in Syria, marked by tight regulations on public fasting. The interim Ministry of Religious Endowments prohibited eating in public, with violators facing potential imprisonment. The atmosphere is notably influenced by the recent political changes, with many fearing the implications of a shift towards an Islamic state under current governance.
In Damascus, Syria, the first Ramadan without the Assad family in decades commenced with mixed responses from local restaurants and cafes, some of which remained closed during the day. The interim Ministry of Religious Endowments mandated that public eating and drinking be prohibited, threatening violators with imprisonment of up to three months. Despite this, some coffee shops operated discreetly, obscuring their windows from public view.
The regime change, orchestrated by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, led to the ousting of President Bashar Assad in December, instigating concerns that the nation could transition towards an Islamic state. Previously under Assad’s governance, eating in public during Ramadan was permissible, but many Syrians now refrain from breaking their fast publicly to avoid repercussions.
Interim Religious Affairs Minister Hussam Haj-Hussein proclaimed this Ramadan as a symbol of triumph, declaring, “Ramadan this year comes with a new flavor. This is the Ramadan of victory and liberation.” Meanwhile, various countries worldwide, from Saudi Arabia to Japan, began their observances at different times based on the lunar calendar and moon sighting.
The communal aspect of Ramadan, where families gather to break fast at sunset, remains vital, with the pre-dawn meal ‘suhoor’ essential for daily preparation. Following Ramadan, the Islamic holiday of Eid al-Fitr, a significant celebration, will take place.
The beginning of Ramadan in Syria marks a pivotal shift following the end of the Assad family rule. The new Islamist governance imposes strict regulations regarding public displays of eating and drinking, reflecting a broader cultural transition. Observers note a blend of traditional practices alongside emerging regulations in this new era, underpinning the social and political transformations in the region.
Original Source: www.journalgazette.net
