Damascus: Historical and Religious Significance in Islam
Etymology and Translation
- Etymology: The name “Damascus” originates from the ancient Semitic term “Dimashq,” which has been used since antiquity to identify this historic city.
- Arabic: دمشق (Dimashq)
- Turkish: Şam
Historical Overview
According to the Islamic scholar Jalālu ʾd-dīn Suyūt̤ī, Damascus holds the title of the second sacred city in Syria, with Jerusalem being the first. Despite its rich historical connections and religious significance, Damascus is not mentioned in the Qur’an.
Early Foundation Myths
The city’s origins vary among historians. Some claim Damascus was founded by a slave named Dimashq, who belonged to Prophet Abraham and was gifted by Nimrod. Others attest that a slave of Alexander the Great, also named Dimashq, founded it during Alexander’s era.
Islamic Conquest and Umayyad Period
In 13 A.H. (634 CE), Damascus was seized by K͟hālid ibn al-Walīd during the Caliphate of ʿUmar ibn al-K͟haṭṭāb. It later emerged as the capital of the Umayyad Caliphate in 41 A.H. (661 CE) under Caliph Muʿāwiyah. This prestige continued until 132 A.H. (750 CE), when the Abbasid Caliphate shifted the capital to al-Kūfah and then to Bag͟hdād.
Religious Structures
Umayyad Mosque
The momentous Umayyad Mosque was constructed under the reign of ʿAbdu ʾl-Malik ibn Marwān. Initiated in 86 A.H. (705 CE) and completed after a decade, it was built on the ruins of an ancient Greek temple and a Christian church.
Shared Religious Space
Interestingly, both Muslims and Christians initially worshipped in the mosque together until later segregation. The Muslims eventually expanded their worship area under subsequent caliphs, notably during al-Walīd Ibn ʿAbdu ʾl-Malik’s reign.
Construction and Symbolic Importance
The Mosque’s construction incorporated architectural expertise from different regions, even involving Greek artisans under diplomatic pressure. The structure included intricate decorations, gold embellishments, and symbolic religious inscriptions.
- Special Features:
- A towering Qiblah decorated with golden scimitars inscribed with verses from the Qur’an.
- Detailed stone carvings and precious metal inlays.
Importance in Islamic Eschatology
The Minaret of Jesus is believed to be the spot from which Jesus will descend in the end times, as noted in Islamic eschatological traditions. This endows the Umayyad Mosque with additional religious magnitude.
Noteworthy Events and Legends
- The tale of the monk and al-Walīd’s symbolic demolition of the monastery’s highest altar to prove his resolve.
- The account of Muhammad’s cousin Abū ʿUbaidah proposing a collective agreement for joint usage of worship space, demonstrating early interfaith relations.
- Miraculous finds such as the head of John the Baptist, adding symbolic weight to Damascus’ religious significance.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Vision of Islam” by Sachiko Murata and William Chittick – A comprehensive introduction to Islamic principles and historical context.
- “Islamic History: A Very Short Introduction” by Adam J. Silverstein – Provides a brief but thorough overview of Islamic history, including key periods like the Umayyad Caliphate.
- “The Umayyad Mosque of Damascus” by Alain George – An in-depth scholarly study on the architecture and history of the Umayyad Mosque.
Takeaways and Conclusion
Damascus, with its comprehensive history and religious influence, stands as a pivotal city in both Islamic and global heritage. The Umayyad Mosque serves as a testament to the city’s historical intersections between faiths, architectural grandeur, and its enduring legacy in the Islamic world. Understanding Damascus’ layered history offers valuable insights into the confluence of culture, religion, and history in shaping one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
For scholars and enthusiasts of Islamic history, Damascus represents a vital study area, rich with historical events, religious significance, and magnificent structures that have stood the test of time.
