Introduction to Druzes
The Druzes, a mystic sect within Islam, emerged in the early eleventh century in the Syrian mountains. They primarily reside in the Lebanon districts and the vicinity of Damascus. Founded by al-Ḥakīm, a fanatical Caliph of the Fatimid dynasty in Cairo, along with two Persians named Hamzah and al-Darāzī, the sect derives its name from al-Darāzī.
Etymology
Druze is derived from the name of one of their early leaders, al-Darāzī. In Arabic, Druze is written as درزي (pronounced “Durzi”), and in Turkish, it is Dr.üz (pronounced “Drüz”).
Beliefs
According to De Sacy in his “Exposé de la Religion des Druzes,” the Druzes’ beliefs include:
- Monotheism: Recognizing only one God without delving into His nature or attributes.
- Divine Manifestation: Believing that God manifests in human form at different periods, culminating in al-Ḥakīm at the beginning of the fifth century AH.
- Afterlife of al-Ḥakīm: al-Ḥakīm’s disappearance in 411 AH is seen as a test of faith. They believe he will reappear to triumph over his enemies.
- Universal Intelligence: The primary divine creation, appearing in human form as Hamzah ibn Ahmad during al-Ḥakīm’s epoch.
- Mediatorship: Hamzah, the sole possessor of divine knowledge and truth, communicates with lower ministers and the faithful, acting as the mediator with God.
- Reincarnation: Souls continually transition between bodies, ascending through adherence to truth or descending through neglect.
- Seven Commandments: Practicing truth, charity, renunciation of previous religions, complete submission to God’s will, and acknowledgment of all previous religions as lesser forms of true religion.
Druze Christian Catechism
As referenced in Rev. J. Wortabet’s “Researches into the Religions of Syria,” the Druzes have a unique perspective on Christianity:
- True and False Christ: The gospel truths were spoken by Salman el Pharisy (Hamzah), not the Christ born of Mary.
- Post-Crucifixion: The true Christ took Jesus’s body, propagated the resurrection myth to maintain Christian followers.
- Unity of God: Christians’ failure to recognize God’s unity is attributed to divine decree.
- Divine Will: Misleading and guiding people is seen as God’s prerogative, beyond human questioning.
Books for Further Study
- “Exposé de la Religion des Druzes” by Silvestre de Sacy
- “Researches into the Religions of Syria” by Rev. J. Wortabet
- “The Druze: At Home in the Middle East” by Ted Swedenburg
Takeaways and Conclusion
The Druzes present a fascinating case of religious syncretism and mysticism within the broader Islamic world. Their unique beliefs about divine manifestation, reincarnation, and their reinterpretation of Christian doctrines set them apart significantly. Understanding the Druzes provides insights into the diverse and complex nature of religious thought in the Middle East.
Their theology challenges conventional Islamic teachings and showcases the rich tapestry of religious diversity that has historically flourished in the region.
