Druze is a monotheistic religion found in many Arab countries such as Lebanon, Syria,
Israel and Jordan. About forty percent of the Druze population lives in Syria while about
30% live in Lebanon. Large populations of Druze communities are also found in parts of
North America and Europe. The total Druze population of the world is estimated to be
between 1 million and 2.5 million.
Druze is basically an offshoot of Shi’ite Islam and they separated their ways starting in
1016 after a dispute with the Caliph. Initially they were a secret movement but then later
they became public and faced restrictions from the unitary caliphate government. Since
then, the Druze have mostly been oppressed and persecuted for their beliefs throughout
different caliphates. Most countries now officially recognize them as a separate religion,
which now gives them more rights and protection.
They have a lot of similar beliefs to Muslims but they differ in significant ways. The
Druzes believe that God is incomprehensible but He also manifests Himself in this world.
Their holy book is known as ‘Kitab-Al-Hakima’ and their prayer house is called ‘Khalwa’.
One of their main beliefs is that God can manifest Himself among the family members of
the Prophet’s family starting with Ali.
In the Druze religion is there is a lot of emphasis on praying but there are no five
obligatory prayers. Spiritual leaders or Shiekhs are held in very high regard and only they
can understand the true Druze message. Finally a lot of Druze gatherings and events take
place on Thursdays.