Damascus, Feb. 20 (SANA) Syria’s Minister of Religious Endowments, Mohammad Abu al-Khair Shukri, said Friday that compassion lies at the heart of Islam and should serve as a foundation for building both individuals and society. He added that it must be practiced in all areas of life.
Speaking during the first Friday sermon of Ramadan at the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus, Shukri described compassion as a central Islamic virtue closely tied to faith. He said emulating the Prophet Muhammad requires translating that principle into everyday behavior within families, workplaces and broader social relations.
The minister also announced the launch of a new initiative titled the “National Monthly Program for Shared Values and Ethics.” The program aims to reinforce the country’s moral framework and address social issues through a values-based and educational approach.
According to Shukri, each month will focus on a single theme promoted through sermons, religious outreach activities and public awareness campaigns targeting different segments of society.
Compassion has been selected as the theme for Ramadan, he said, citing the holy month’s emphasis on solidarity, mercy and strengthening social ties.
