Damascus: The Second Sacred City in Syria

Damascus, known as Dimashq (دمشق) in Arabic, holds a prestigious position in Islamic history and culture. According to the renowned Islamic scholar Jalālu ʾd-dīn Suyūt̤ī, Damascus is considered the second most sacred city in Syria, with Jerusalem being the first.

Etymology and Historical Background

Etymology

• Dimashq (دمشق): The original Arabic term for Damascus.
• Thought to be derived from ancient languages possibly predating Islam.

Historical Significance

Damascus is a city with millennia-old roots, historically known as a site of immense strategic and cultural significance:

• Pre-Islamic Era: Likely a vibrant center of trade and culture, as per various ancient records.
• Islamic Conquest: Damascus fell to the Muslim army during the reign of Caliph ʿUmar in A.H. 13 (634 AD), led by K͟hālid ibn al-Walīd.

Islamic Era

• Core Aspects: Following its capture, Damascus became the capital of the Umaiyad Caliphate under Muʿāwiyah I (A.H. 41, 661 AD), who made it the chief city of Islam until the Abbasid dynasty moved the capital to Baghdad in A.H. 132 (750 AD).
• Architectural Marvels:
  • Great Mosque: Commissioned by Caliph ʿAbdu ʾl-Malik ibn Marwān, and completed in ten years starting A.H. 86 (705 AD). Built on the ruins of an ancient Greek temple and a Christian church.

Cultural Intersections and Theological Insights

Though not mentioned directly in the Qurʾān, Damascus is imbued with Islamic tradition and discourse, leading to various insightful interpretations:

• Suyūt̤ī postulated Damascus as possibly being the “Iram of the columns” mentioned in Sūrah al-Fajr (89:6), though not a widely held Muslim view.

Synonyms, Antonyms, and Related Terms

Synonyms:

• Dimashq: The classical and modern Arabic term.
• Şām (الشام): Another term used in Islamic texts for the region covering Damascus.

Antonyms:

• Barren/Wasteland: A contrast to the lush and thriving imagery often associated with Damascus.

Related Terms:

• Şām (الشام): Refers to the wider region of the Levant which includes modern Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and Palestine.
• Umaiyad Caliphate: A defining period in Damascus’ history.
• Barada River: The river that is essential to the city’s agricultural life.
• Great Mosque of Damascus: An architectural and spiritual symbol.

Quotes and Cultural Reflections

Notable Quotations:

• “Damascus, once implored for respite by the columns of Iram…” – Reflects the poetic imagination associated with the city.
• From Caliph al-Walīd’s ambitiously declared vision for the mosque: “I will, then, find out a way to know the truth. Bring forth all the gold thou hast.”

Suggested Literature and Further Studies

For those seeking an in-depth understanding of Damascus:

• Books:
  • “Damascus: A History” by Ross Burns - Offers a comprehensive history of the city.
  • “The Great Mosque of Damascus: Studies on the Makings of an Umayyad Visual Culture” by Alain George - Focuses on architectural and cultural developments.
• Islamic Insight:
  • “The History of the Temple of Jerusalem” by Jalālu ʾd-dīn Suyūt̤ī, translated by Reynolds.
• Scholarly Articles: Academic papers detailed on the cultural interplay between Muslims and Christians in the medieval era.

Inspirational Conclusion and Envisioning Future Studies

As we delve into the intricate history of Damascus, we realize its pivotal role in shaping Islamic civilization. A nexus of faith, knowledge, and culture, Damascus continues to inspire scholars, historians, and believers alike.

May your journeys into the annals of Islamic heritage be profound and illuminating.

Ibrahim Al-Hakim October 17, 2023

“To explore Damascus is to journey through layers of history, faith, and culture—a city where past and present coexist in the symphony of human endeavor.”