By Abdul Rafay Afzal (Editor in Chief – The Advocate Post)
The Muslim world is facing an increasingly urgent call to protect its sacred religious sites, a call magnified by the recent foiled attempt to attack the revered Holy Shrine of Hazrat Zainab RA in Syria. Authorities in Syria recently apprehended a terrorist group that sought to destroy this essential landmark, a blow to the shared Islamic heritage that resonates deeply with Muslims around the world. This disturbing incident highlights the growing extremism and violence targeted at our places of worship, reinforcing the need
for concerted efforts to safeguard these spiritual and historical treasures.
Religious sites in Syria, such as the shrine of Hazrat Zainab RA, are not just physical structures but pillars of Islamic identity, culture, and history. Their preservation is crucial in maintaining the memory of our shared faith and the lessons they carry from our ancestors. It is not only the bricks and mortar at stake, but the very soul of our religious legacy. Extremist groups, with their violent ideologies, seek to erase these symbols of unity and peace, replacing them with division and destruction. The recent terror plot serves as a reminder that our heritage is under constant threat, and if we do not act decisively, we risk the irreversible loss of these historical and sacred monuments.
The responsibility to protect these irreplaceable sites falls squarely on the Syrian government, which must prioritize the conservation of religious and historical landmarks as part of its nation-building process. While rebuilding the country’s infrastructure and political system is essential, the protection of its cultural and religious heritage must also be embedded in these efforts. Laws that safeguard these sites from destruction, coupled with widespread public awareness campaigns, are necessary steps in ensuring that the public understands the significance of their preservation. Local communities, often the custodians of these sites, should be actively involved in their protection, as they are the ones who most intimately understand the potential threats posed to these cultural treasures.
Pakistan, with its strong historical and religious ties to Syria and its experience in cultural preservation, has a vital role to play in this effort. As a country that shares a deep connection to the Islamic world, Pakistan has both the moral and practical obligation to support Syria in safeguarding its religious heritage. Through cultural diplomacy and technical expertise, Pakistan can contribute to the protection and
restoration of vulnerable sites in Syria, extending solidarity to a nation in crisis. Partnerships between Pakistan and Syrian organizations could facilitate the exchange of knowledge and resources, enabling both countries to bolster their preservation efforts.
Educational institutions in Pakistan also have an important role to play in raising awareness about the importance of protecting Islamic heritage. By fostering partnerships with Syrian universities and institutions, Pakistani scholars and students can participate in research, dialogue, and awareness campaigns that emphasize the sanctity of religious sites. By nurturing a culture of conservation, we can not only protect our heritage but also inspire future generations to carry the torch of preservation.
Furthermore, ordinary Muslims around the world have a part to play in ensuring the protection of these sacred sites. By engaging in interfaith dialogue, participating in cultural exchanges, and promoting online campaigns, we can amplify the message of solidarity in defense of our shared heritage. This grassroots involvement is crucial in creating a sense of ownership and pride for our common Islamic legacy, which transcends national borders.
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), as the collective voice of the Muslim world, must take a proactive role in advocating for the protection of religious sites. The OIC can pass resolutions condemning violence against these sites and encourage member states to develop standardized protection protocols. It is through these coordinated efforts that we can send a powerful message to extremists who seek to destroy our heritage: we will stand united to protect our history and faith.
The protection of religious sites in Syria is not just a regional issue, it is a global concern for Muslims everywhere. When we allow these sacred landmarks to be destroyed, we erode the very foundation of our collective identity. Our unity as a Muslim Ummah, bound by shared beliefs, is what gives us strength in the face of adversity. Protecting our religious heritage is not only an act of preservation but a reaffirmation of our faith and values in the face of those who seek to divide us.
As we confront the rise of extremism and violence in the region, Muslims have a unique opportunity to unite in defense of what is sacred. The time to act is now. We must come together governments, organizations, and individuals to protect vital religious sites in Syria and beyond. In doing so, we will ensure that future generations inherit not just the physical landmarks, but a rich tapestry of faith, culture, and shared history that transcends divisions and strengthens the bonds that unite us as one global Muslim
community.
Let us stand together, united in our commitment to preserve the sacred sites that are the living testament to our shared Islamic heritage. Only then can we turn our collective anguish over the destruction of our heritage into a powerful movement for its conservation, ensuring that the beauty and sanctity of our history is passed on to future generations.
