The Legacy of Abu Al-Alaa Al-Ma'arri: Vandalism of the Philosopher’s Tomb Sparks Widespread Condemnation
The repeated attacks on the tomb of Abu Al-Alaa Al-Ma'arri serve as a troubling indicator of the growing influence of extremist ideology that rejects intellectual diversity and philosophical heritage
April 6, 2025, 6:29 pm

The Legacy of Abu Al-Alaa Al-Ma'arri: Vandalism of the Philosopher’s Tomb Sparks Widespread Condemnation

معرة النعمان/ أرشيفية

Syrian media platforms and activist accounts have circulated images documenting the destruction of the tomb of Abu Al-Alaa Al-Ma'arri in Maarat Al-Numan, Idlib Province. Unknown assailants vandalized the site, which represents a significant cultural landmark, highlighting the continued targeting of intellectual and cultural symbols in conflict-affected areas.

This is not the first such attack since the outbreak of the Syrian crisis. In 2013, armed militants decapitated the statue of Al-Ma'arri in Maarat Al-Numan, defaced its base, and shot at it. This repeated pattern of assaults poses a persistent threat to Syria’s cultural heritage, especially in the absence of effective protection mechanisms.

A History of Attacks from Multiple Sides

Al-Ma'arri's tomb has previously suffered another attack, when Syrian regime forces raided it and looted its contents. This dual assault by different sides in the conflict underscores the dangers surrounding historical and cultural sites in war zones.

Who Was Abu Al-Alaa Al-Ma'arri?

Born in 973 CE and passing away in 1057 CE, Ahmad bin Abdullah bin Suleiman Al-Qudai'i Al-Tanoukhi Al-Ma'arri was a poet, philosopher, and writer during the Abbasid era. He was born and died in Maarat Al-Numan, northern Syria, gaining widespread fame for his controversial thoughts and philosophies in his time.

One of his most famous works, "The Epistle of Forgiveness" (Risalat Al-Ghufran), is often compared in significance to Dante’s "Divine Comedy".

The repeated attacks on Al-Ma'arri’s legacy raise serious concerns about the fate of Syria’s entire intellectual and cultural heritage.

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