Damascus, Syria – The administration of the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus has issued a statement addressing a recent incident involving a vehicle entering the mosque’s courtyard adn a subsequent video posted on social media.The incident, which occurred on July 25th, sparked widespread criticism online.
According to the official statement released by the mosque administration,a man arrived at the Umayyad mosque to receive a shipment of Qur’ans. Initially permitted to park outside the mosque grounds to facilitate unloading, the individual was informed that assistance with the delivery was unavailable. Several employees, without authorization from mosque management, then allowed the vehicle to enter the courtyard to expedite the process.
However, the driver reportedly deviated from the intended purpose, driving the car throughout the courtyard and filming a video which was then shared on social media platforms. The mosque administration deemed the video’s content inappropriate and disrespectful to the sanctity of the religious site.
The administration has stated it is taking disciplinary action against the employees who authorized the vehicle’s entry without proper approval.Furthermore, thay are coordinating with relevant authorities to pursue legal action against the individual who filmed and posted the video. the statement emphasized the administration’s commitment to preserving the mosque’s sanctity and preventing similar incidents in the future.
The circulating video depicted a man, accompanied by family members, driving a vehicle within the mosque’s courtyard, with pedestrians present. The footage quickly gained traction online, drawing important condemnation from social media users who viewed the act as a violation of the mosque’s sacredness.
About the Umayyad Mosque:
The Umayyad Mosque, also known as the Great Mosque of Damascus, is one of the largest and oldest mosques in the world. Its history dates back to the early years of Islam,built on the site of a former Christian basilica dedicated to John the baptist. The current structure was largely completed in 715 AD during the reign of the Umayyad Caliph al-Walid I. It holds immense religious significance for Muslims and is considered a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, featuring intricate mosaics, courtyards, and minarets. The mosque houses a shrine believed to contain the head of John the Baptist (Yahya in Islam). It is indeed a major site for Islamic scholarship and prayer,attracting worshippers and tourists from around the globe. The mosque covers an area of approximately 10,500 square meters and can accommodate tens of thousands of worshippers. It has undergone numerous renovations and restorations throughout its history, reflecting the diverse influences of the empires that have ruled Damascus.
