Why Syria chose a hawk over an eagle to represent its nation
In short: In many cultures, eagles are the ultimate symbol of power. Yet, Syria specifically chose the Hawk of Quraish. This distinction wasn't just aesthetic; it was a deliberate choice based on hunting habits, historical lineage, and a desire for bravery without perceived hostility.
The Syrian national emblem is deeply rooted in Arab history, specifically linked to the Hawk of Quraish (al-‘Uqab). According to retired Brigadier General Dr. Adeeb Al-Shaa’r, the hawk was preferred over the eagle because it hunts live prey rather than scavenging. While falcons are also highly regarded in Arab culture, they were avoided as national symbols due to their perceived aggressiveness. The hawk, therefore, serves as a symbol of bravery and leadership without hostility.
The emblem's history is marked by shifting alliances. During the United Arab Republic (1958–1961), Syria adopted Egypt’s Eagle of Saladin. However, some conservative Syrians resisted this because they viewed the eagle as a 'spear-eater.' Following the dissolution of the union in 1961, Syria reinstated the Hawk of Quraish. To distinguish it from the Egyptian eagle, Syria depicted its hawk with wings spread open, whereas Egypt's was illustrated with folded wings.
The symbol has undergone various iterations since the Syrian Republic's establishment in 1930. A significant redesign occurred in 1969, adding wheat stalks to symbolize agriculture and a scroll in Kufic script. A fresh insignia was adopted by authorities during the period after December 2024's Assad regime collapse. Adopted on July 3, 2025, this current design features a golden eagle inspired by Palmyra motifs, with 14 wing feathers representing the country's governorates and five tail feathers symbolizing its primary geographic regions.
A unique linguistic quirk persists: despite the official designation of the 'Hawk,' many members of the public still commonly refer to the national symbol as 'niser,' which means eagle. This confusion stems from the period of union with Egypt, where the eagle was the dominant official symbol.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Emblem of Syria
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