Druze life in North Alabama
The Druze faith emerged in eleventh-century Egypt and developed in the mountains of Lebanon, Syria and Israel. Followers call themselves Muwahhidun, meaning those who affirm the oneness of God. Druze families live in many countries, including the United States, and NAWD is ready to list any Druze association or community in North Alabama.
Beliefs and teachings
Druze teaching centers on the oneness of God, truthfulness, mutual help and reincarnation of the soul. The faith grew out of Ismaili Islam but is regarded as a separate religion. Its sacred writings, the Epistles of Wisdom, are studied by the initiated, and the community does not accept converts.
Worship and community
Religious understanding is divided between initiates, called uqqal, and the wider community, called juhhal. Initiates gather on Thursday evenings in a khalwa, a simple house of prayer, while the wider community joins in family and cultural life. Many Druze take part fully in civic life wherever they live, and associations in North America host cultural and social events.
Holy days and visiting
Druze observe Eid al-Adha as their major holiday and also honor the prophet Shu'ayb each spring. The inner religious teachings are kept within the community, so public events are usually cultural. Contact the organizers before attending.