Syria
From Missiopedia
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Official name: Syrian Arab Republic |
DEMOGRAPHY
ECONOMY |
LIFE & LIBERTY |
Contents |
[edit] Geography
[edit] Location
- Syria is a country in Southwest Asia bordering the Mediterranean Sea and Lebanon to the west, Israel to the southwest, Jordan to the south, Iraq to the east and Turkey to the north. Syria consists mostly of arid plateau, although the northwest part of the country bordering the Mediterranean is fairly green. The Northeast of the country "Al Jazira" and the South "Hawran" are important agricultural areas. The Euphrates, Syria's most important river, crosses the country in the east. It is considered to be one of the 15 states that comprise the so-called “Cradle of Civilization.”
[edit] Climate
[edit] Natural Resources
[edit] Demographics
[edit] Peoples
[edit] Provinces
[edit] Life
- The Cities of Syria
- Syria has been involved in wars and confrontations with surrounding states for over 50 years. Pray that there would be greater political freedom in Syria.
[edit] Economy
[edit] Government
- Syria has taken in 1.5 million Iraqi refugees, of whom at least 300,000 are from Christian backgrounds.
[edit] Terrorism
- Since Syria’s 1979 designation as a state sponsor of terrorism, it has continued to provide political support to Palestinian terrorist groups, according to Country Reports on Terrorism 2007. Syria has also continued to provide political and material support to Hezballah since that group’s creation. Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PLFP), and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine-General Command (PFLP-GC), among others, all have offices in Damascus and operate within Syria's borders. The Syrian government insisted that the Damascus-based groups are confined to political and informational activities, but Palestinian groups with leaders in Syria have claimed responsibility for anti-Israeli terrorist attacks.
- In 2006, President Bashar al-Asad expressed public support for Palestinian terrorist groups. Hamas Politburo head Khalid Mishal and his deputies continued to reside in Syria, and the Syrian government provided security escorts for their motorcades. Additionally, Mishal led Friday prayers at various mosques throughout Syria and gave several public speeches expressing gratitude for Syria's support.
- Although the Syrian government suspended intelligence cooperation with the United States of America and several foreign governments in 2004, Damascus has taken some action against Al Qaeda-linked groups and individuals in 2007. Additionally, the Syrian government worked to increase security cooperation with Iraq. In July, Syria hosted a meeting of technical border security experts representing Iraq's neighbors, the United States, and other countries. Syria also participated in two ministerial-level Iraq Neighbors' Conferences in May and November, in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, and Istanbul, Turkey, respectively. In August 2007, Syria hosted Iraqi Prime Minister Maliki and signed several security-related agreements. According to U.S. and Iraqi officials, 2007 witnessed a marked reduction in the flow of foreign terrorists transiting through Syria into Iraq.
[edit] Religion
- Syria is comprised of 90.3% Muslims and only 5.1% of the population are Christians. The constitution provides for freedom of religion. However, the government imposes restrictions on this right. While there is no official state religion, the constitution requires that the president be Muslim and stipulates that Islamic jurisprudence is a principal source of legislation. The majority of the population are Muslims, although Christians do have some freedom to meet together and worship. The government monitors the activities of all religious groups and discourages proselytism.
[edit] Islam
[edit] Buddhism
[edit] Christianity
- The Christian believers of Syria need the gift of discernment, as they have freedom to worship and witness but are watched carefully. May their witness not be jeopardized but that their freedom will be used wisely and effectively.
- The Gideons International have opened a new branch in Damascus. Give thanks that the President of Syria, Bashar al-Assad, has a positive attitude towards Christianity. Because of this attitude, it is possible for the Gideons to operate freely. Please pray that prisons and schools will also open their doors for placements of Bibles to be made. Pray for the Lord’s blessing on Damascus and that the members there will have real joy in serving the Lord.
[edit] History
[edit] Churches
[edit] Church and State Relations
- Christian minorities are tolerated and have freedom to worship and witness within their own community, but all activities that could threaten the government or communal harmony are watched. Evangelicals currently enjoy good standing, so they are hesitant to jeopardize this by witnessing too forthrightly. Pray that they might discern how best to share Christ.
[edit] Mission
- Missionaries are not allowed to reside in the country. Pray for those who pay occasional pastoral visits, and for a more open door to this needy land. Pray for the ministry of Christian professionals living in the country.
- Although Christians are tolerated in Syria and can meet together, any attempts to witness to Muslims is seen as a threat to the government. Pray for wisdom to know how best to share their faith in this environment.
[edit] Broadcasting
[edit] Councils and Networks
[edit] Future Trends
[edit] For More Reading
