Issam al-Attar, a name synonymous with resistance and Islamic scholarship, left an indelible mark on Syrian history. Born in Damascus in 1927, al-Attar’s life traversed decades of political turmoil, religious activism, and exile. He rose to prominence as the leader of the Syrian Muslim Brotherhood, a prominent Islamist organization, during a critical period in the nation’s development. This blog post explores the remarkable journey of Issam al-Attar, a man who embodied the struggles and aspirations of a generation yearning for freedom and Islamic revival.

Early Life and Entry into Islamic Activism

Issam al-Attar’s story begins in the heart of Damascus, a city steeped in Islamic tradition. Born into a religious family, his father, Mohammed Reda al-Attar, was a respected jurist. This environment undoubtedly nurtured al-Attar’s early interest in Islam. At a young age, he found himself drawn to the “Youth of Mohammed,” a youth movement established by Mustafa al-Siba’i, a key figure in the Syrian Muslim Brotherhood. This association would shape the course of his life.

The Syrian Muslim Brotherhood and Political Activism

The Muslim Brotherhood, a Sunni Islamist organization with a global reach, emerged in Egypt in the 1920s. It advocated for a return to Islamic principles in governance and society. In Syria, the movement gained traction during the mid-20th century, attracting young minds like Issam al-Attar. He rose through the ranks, eventually assuming the leadership position in 1957.

Al-Attar’s tenure as leader coincided with a period of heightened political tensions in Syria. The country witnessed a series of coups and power struggles, with the Ba’ath Party eventually solidifying its grip on power in the late 1960s. The Ba’ath ideology, emphasizing secularism and Arab nationalism, clashed with the Muslim Brotherhood’s vision of an Islamic state. This ideological conflict led to a period of repression against the Brotherhood, forcing al-Attar into exile in 1970.

Exile in Germany and Continued Advocacy

Germany became al-Attar’s new home, a place where he spent the remaining decades of his life. Despite the physical distance from Syria, he remained a vocal critic of the Assad regime, which had become synonymous with the Ba’ath Party. He continued to advocate for Islamic principles and freedom for the Syrian people.

While in exile, al-Attar established the Islamic Center Aachen in Germany. This center became a platform for him to deliver lectures, write extensively, and engage in intellectual discourse. His writings focused on Islamic theology, social issues, and the political situation in his homeland. He remained a revered figure for many Syrians, both within the country and abroad.

A Legacy of Faith, Resistance, and Controversy

Issam al-Attar’s life and legacy are complex and multifaceted. He was a devout Muslim scholar who yearned for Islamic revival in Syria. He was a symbol of resistance against an authoritarian regime that stifled dissent. Yet, his association with the Muslim Brotherhood, which has been accused of extremism in some quarters, remains a subject of debate.

Despite the controversies, Issam al-Attar’s dedication to his faith and his unwavering commitment to a free Syria cannot be denied. He lived a life of exile, yearning for the day he could return to his homeland. His passing in 2024 marked the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy that continues to evoke strong emotions among Syrians and those interested in the intersection of Islam and politics in the Middle East.

This blog post offers a glimpse into the remarkable life of Issam al-Attar. Further exploration of his writings, speeches, and the historical context in which he lived can provide a deeper understanding of this complex figure and the ongoing struggle for freedom and faith in Syria.