Historic Syria, encompassing modern-day Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and parts of Palestine, holds a remarkable place in Islamic tradition and history. Known as "Bilad al-Sham" in Arabic, this region is celebrated in both the Quran and the Hadith as a land of immense spiritual, historical, and prophetic significance.

Quranic Significance

The Quran refers to the land of Sham including Palestine multiple times, often emphasizing its blessings and sacred nature. Allah describes the region as a land that has been sanctified and favored:

"Glory be to Him who took His servant by night from the Sacred Mosque to the Farthest Mosque, whose surroundings We have blessed..." (Quran 17:1).

This verse, referring to the Prophet Muhammad's miraculous Night Journey (Isra), highlights the blessed surroundings of Masjid al-Aqsa, located in Jerusalem, a central part of historic Sham.

Similarly, the Quran recounts the stories of many prophets, such as Ibrahim (Abraham), Musa (Moses), and Isa (Jesus), whose missions were rooted in this sacred region.

Prophetic Narrations

Several Hadith refer to Bilad al-Sham, highlighting its virtues and significance in Islamic teachings.

1. Virtue of Ash-Sham: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) stated, "Tuba is for Ash-Sham," indicating its blessed status. When asked why, he replied, "Because the angels of Ar-Rahman spread their wings over it" Tirmidhi: Book 49, Hadith 354.

2. Blessings in Ash-Sham and Yemen: The Prophet (ﷺ) prayed, "O Allah bless us in our Sham! O Allah bless us in our Yemen." When the people mentioned Najd, he reiterated his blessings for Ash-Sham and Yemen, cautioning that "Earthquakes are there, and tribulations are there" Tirmidhi: Book 49, Hadith 353.

3. Prioritizing Syria: The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ advised prioritizing Syria during future conflicts, calling it Allah's chosen land and a refuge for His best servants. If unwilling, he suggested Yemen, emphasizing Allah’s special care for Syria and its people. Sunan Abi Dawud Book 15, Hadith 7

3. Corruption in Ash-Sham: The Prophet (ﷺ) warned that when the inhabitants of Ash-Sham become corrupt, there would be no good in it for the people. However, he assured that there will always be a group in his Ummah who will be helped by Allah and will not be harmed by those who forsake them until the Hour is established Tirmidhi: Book 33, Hadith 35.

4. End of Times: Additionally, Sham is described as a focal point in eschatological events. According to Islamic tradition, the descent of Isa (Jesus) will occur near a white minaret in Damascus, signaling the final stages of human history. Sunan Abi Dawud Book 39, Hadith 31

A Land of Prophetic Footsteps and Historical and Contemporary Challenges

The prophets’ connection to Sham amplifies its sacredness. From Prophet Ibrahim's journey to the sacrifices of Prophet Zakariya and Prophet Yahya (John), the region is a testament to divine guidance. It remains a spiritual link for Muslims, embodying their shared heritage.

The Umayyad Caliphate, which established its capital in Damascus, further solidified Syria's importance in Islamic history. The Umayyads played a crucial role in the expansion of Islam and the establishment of administrative and cultural frameworks that would influence the Muslim world for centuries.

The Great Mosque of Damascus, one of the oldest and largest mosques in the world, stands as a testament to the architectural and spiritual legacy of this period. Both Christian and Islamic traditions regard the mosque as the burial site of John the Baptist's head, a belief dating back to the 6th century. Within its sacred precincts are two shrines dedicated to Imam Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, whose martyrdom is often likened to that of John the Baptist and Jesus, symbolizing sacrifice and steadfast faith.

In contemporary times, Syria remains a focal point for discussions on Islamic history and identity. The ongoing conflicts in the region have drawn attention to its historical significance and the need to preserve its cultural heritage. The Quran and Hadith serve as reminders of the region's blessed status and the importance of unity and faith among its people.