Druze

[Audio] Good afternoon everyone. We are here to discuss the Molecular biotechnology program, which focuses on the Druze population. Our goal is to explore their customs, their unique and vibrant culture, and how they have spread throughout the world. We will dive deep into the origin, the history and the current role of the Druze people in countries such as Lebanon, Syria and Israel. I look forward to our discussion and the insights we will gain together..

[Audio] I will be discussing the Druze people and their various habits and traditions, which vary from country to country. Donia will give us an introduction to the Druze people, while Sama will discuss their habits and traditions. We will then move on to examining the Druze in Syria with Omnia, followed by Seif discussing them in Jordan. Moving onto Lebanon with Menna, Sara will explain the Druze's religious beliefs. Finally, Angie will delve into the Druze in Israel. Let's take a closer look at the Druze people..

[Audio] The Druze are an ethnoreligious group with roots in the Middle East. They have sizeable populations in Syria, Lebanon, Israel, and Jordan. Although they are a part of the wider Arab and Islamic community, they have a distinct identity and set of beliefs. Their religion is based on Abrahamic faith, and emphasizes the oneness of God as well as reverence of God as their leader and teacher. They are renowned for their steadfast loyalty to their faith and to each other..

[Audio] The Druze faith is an ancient religion, with its origin tracing back to Ismaʿīlī Shīʿism. Founded during the reign of the sixth Fāṭimid Caliph, al-Ḥākim bi-Amr Allāh, it is a faith that promotes spiritual elevation and enlightenment - and it has had a profound impact on the lives and beliefs of its followers. It is still an integral part of the Middle East and of diasporic communities throughout the world. In order to better understand this faith and its legacy, our team of Molecular biotechnology researchers are conducting a program to provide new perspectives and unprecedented insight on one of the world's oldest and most varied religions..

[Audio] While the Druze are a diverse religious community, they divide into two primary groups: al-Juhhal and al-Uqqal. The majority, al-Juhhal, make up roughly 80% of the population and are traditionally prohibited from reading the sacred texts of the faith. Conversely, al-Uqqal, the minority group, practice more stringent dress codes and can partake in religious rituals and spiritual leadership. With regards to marriage, the Druze have strict rules, including no polygamy or marrying outside of the Druze religion, and afford equal marriage opportunities to both sexes..

[Audio] Druze are an ancient and intriguing religious and cultural group with an estimated population of more than 1 million in the early 21st century. Their presence is most strong in Lebanon, Syria and Israel but they also form smaller communities in other parts of the world. They self-identify as Muwahideen or Declarers of Oneness. This presentation will focus on molecular biotechnology as it relates to the Druze. Join us and find out more about this captivating and rapidly growing field of science..

[Audio] The Druzes have a strong connection to their rich cultural heritage and a deep-rooted respect for tradition. Traditions and customs are as important to them as their beliefs. They commonly meet up in local places of worship to discuss current events and to maintain their culture and social bonds. Unique dietary customs include avoiding pork and eating only organic produce. When it comes to marriage, the bride and groom’s families meet ahead of the wedding to sign a marriage agreement. They also celebrate certain holidays such as Druze New Year and the Prophet Shoueib Commemoration Day, which helps to maintain social bonds and preserve the Druze culture..

[Audio] The Druze are an ancient religious sect, believed to have been established in the first century. It is believed their teachings can be traced back to Prophet Muhammad's teachings. They famously persuaded the Fatimid Caliph, al-Hakim, to command God. Druze faith is unique in comparison to other religious and spiritual paths, rejecting the prophesies of all prophets and claiming the Qur'an was written by Salman al-Farsi. Druze beliefs hold various esoteric concepts, such as solutions, reincarnation and transmigration. Many trace their origins to the Tanukhis people, who migrated after the collapse of Marib. Over the centuries, the Druze have become a symbol of religious identity and mystery..

[Audio] The Druze faith is an ancient and mysterious belief system with a deep reverence for tradition, order, and faith. Its followers, known as Druze, believe that the resurrection of God's chosen ruler is necessary to restore balance to the universe. The Druze believe in five prophets; Hamza, Ismail, Muhammad al-Kalima, Baha', and Abu al-Khair, who will lead them to victory. They also have distinct views on inheritance, marriage, and pilgrimage. Among these are the prohibition of daughters from inheriting, the allowance of polygamy as long as all participants are of similar ages, and the practice of brethren from the same family marrying each other but forbidding marriage from any other religion. The Mariam Church in Maaloula in Damascus is seen as a place to renew faith as the Druze carefully keep their religious beliefs secret..

[Audio] A brilliant team of leaders from a range of backgrounds has been gathered together as part of the program for Molecular Biotechnology. Druze Angie Arafa-Donia A. Ebrahim-Sama Wael-Omnia Mokhtar-Seif Ashraf- Sara Samir-Menna Hussein comprise this team which has a wide range of knowledge and experience in various fields, including their own religious beliefs. This team of experts will provide insight into the technologies and approaches used in the area of molecular biotechnology..

[Audio] Our topic is the Druze, a monotheistic Abrahamic religion found mostly in Syria, Lebanon, Israel and Jordan. The Druze believe that only Judaism, Christianity and Islam are representations of faith. They don't celebrate rituals, as they believe it will turn people away from a pure faith. Their religion is kept secret and is not open to converts; the basis of the faith is passed down generation to generation. We will explore this fascinating faith further in this presentation..

[Audio] The Druze faith requires that to become a member, one must take the "Pact of the Guardian of the Time", an eternal covenant which binds the person to adhere to the Seven Commandments, such as sincerity of the tongue, saving the Brotherhood, and monotheism to Molam in every era and time. Furthermore, members need to reject other religions and obey their master in both the secret and open events. This was an overview of the Druze faith..

[Audio] The Druze community in Syria is deeply enmeshed in the social, cultural, and religious fabric of the nation. They are a distinct group of people that demonstrate great dedication to their religious beliefs and principles. Moreover, they are known for their academic excellence, with many having achieved distinction in different scientific, medical, and technological fields. Despite their strong adherence to their faith, Druze have shown an impressive capacity to embrace the modern world, engaging in a wide range of economic and cultural activities. This generation of Druze in Syria is determined to use their knowledge and expertise to make a positive difference in their country, while also having an enduring effect in the global context..

[Audio] The Druze community in Syria is a significant component of the country's culture. With around 700000 members across the country, they contribute significantly to the Damascus suburbs and Jabal al-Sheikh. The molecular biotechnology program is a major initiative designed to improve the quality of life for Druze Unitarians and those living on the eastern side of Jabal al-Samaq. Investing in innovative research can unlock the potential of the Druze and shape a better future for Syria..

[Audio] The Druze Unitarian people have a proud history that spans more than a thousand years. During their struggles against the Crusaders, Ayyubids and Mamluks, their courage, dedication and resilience were remarkable. During the Ottoman Sultanate, they refused to surrender and successfully kept control of the mountain. They have taken the lead in the fight for freedom and justice, despite the odds being stacked against them. The legacy of their courage, conviction and resilience is still alive in Syria..

[Audio] The Druze have proved to be a steadfast and loyal population when it comes to their country. The renowned Sultan Al-Atrash is a renowned figure in this regard, declining offers of independence in order to remain devoted to his homeland. He was willing to go to great lengths for his loyalty, even embarking on a difficult journey into exile in Wadi Sarhan. Eventually, this loyalty was rewarded with a pardon and his return to his small village of Al-Qaria. The Druze's loyalty to their homeland is a powerful example of dedication that we can all strive to embrace..

[Audio] The Druze community in Lebanon have resided in the country for centuries, and have been successful in developing relations with other citizens in the nation. They have made momentous contributions in the fields of science and technology, and have been an essential factor in the country's development. Through a range of initiatives, they have been striving to improve their communities and furthering their people's causes. From medical research to business leadership, the Druze of Lebanon have always been pioneers of progress..

[Audio] The Druze community has been a strong contributor to Lebanon's political life for many years, with several notable Druze figures in prominent political positions. Kamal Jumblatt, for example, was a popular and highly influential leader in the community due to his charm and leadership qualities. His son, Walid, and Prince Majid Arslan have also been active within the Druze political sphere. The majority of the Druze population currently resides in Lebanon, mainly in cities such as Hasbaya, Rashaya, Chouf, Aley, Marjayoun, and Beirut. The Druze legacy has thus remained a major part of Lebanon's culture and identity..

[Audio] Druze face a difficult challenge of managing their relationships with both the state and its government. Despite demonstrating loyalty to the state, they insist on preserving their autonomy, both culturally and politically. This makes it difficult for them to have any direct effect on government policies and decisions, but they stay loyal to their beliefs and customs. They are determined to fight for their rights and safeguard their culture, while attempting to work with modern establishments..

[Audio] The Druze have long held a place in Jordan as a religious minority. It is estimated that around 150000 Druze currently call the country home, forming a close-knit community steeped in their own traditions and customs, such as music, literature, and a unique language. Five ethical principles form the core of their faith, providing a moral code for them to live by. Education is highly valued by the Druze, both within the community and in the wider world. In the scientific field of molecular biotechnology, they have recently made notable contributions, combining traditional knowledge and modern research methods..

[Audio] The Druze have an estimated population of 12 to 14 thousand in Jordan, primarily residing in Azraq and Umm al-Qattin after arriving from Syria, Lebanon and Palestine in the late eighteenth century. Rashid Talee was the first Prime Minister of the Emirate of Transjordan, and has been among the many Druze to have made significant contributions to the political and cultural landscape of Jordan. They are a major part of Jordanian society, and continue to be instrumental in its growth and evolution..

[Audio] Introducing the Druze people and their contributions to the Jordanian society, it is evident that they have worked in the construction and contracting sectors, achieving great success. Further, their leadership in politics has been evidenced since the formation of the first Jordanian government in 1921 by prominent Druze figure Rashid Talee. Other Druze personalities have since assumed important positions, such as Princess Adel Arslan as Chief of Staff. Considering their small numbers, they have had a large impact in Jordan,promoting values such as equal opportunities for all and justice..

[Audio] Druze are an integral part of Israel's population, being one of the fastest-growing communities in the country. They are a distinct ethnic and religious group, who have succeeded in being integrated into Israeli society, while still maintaining strong cultural ties. The Druze have made substantial contributions to Israel's growth, notably in the fields of science and technology, as well as in education. Notably, their mastery in molecular biotechnology has had a tremendous impact on the scientific community globally..

[Audio] The Druze community in Israel is an example of strength and resilience. In the past decade, their position has risen in many ways - a Druze diplomat was appointed in 2012, the Knesset enacted an official day for recognizing Druze achievements in 2018, the first female Druze parliamentarian was elected in 2019 and most recently appointed Gadeer Mreeh as the first Druze emissary for the Jewish Agency. Mreeh is an inspiring example of the power of the Druze community in Israel and their ability to make powerful strides despite their minority status..

[Audio] The Druze community in Israel has made notable achievements in the country. They have the right to vote in local and national elections and their rate of matriculation amongst students has seen a huge increase in the last decade, rising from 53.5% to 82.5%. This is much higher than the national average and higher than that of Jewish students. This is a brilliant showing from the Druze and shows the importance of striving for excellence and progress..

[Audio] The Druze people occupy an illustrious place in the history of the Middle East. An ethno-religious minority, they are known for their loyalty and dedication to their communities. Despite prejudice and discrimination, they remain highly committed to their country and its people by participating in generous rates of military service and helping to defend the nation. Their devotion to their homeland is indicative of their indomitable spirit and loyalty..

[Audio] In 2018, Israel passed a nation-state law that has had a considerable effect on the Druze population residing in the country. Although the Druze have been a part of Israeli society for a long time, the law has highlighted their particular challenge of attempting to unite their national identity to the laws of Israel. This issue has become more and more problematic in recent times. Despite having shared cultural and religious connections with many Jews and Arabs, the Druze must now grapple with the ramifications of this law in their lives..

[Audio] The Druze are an ethno-religious group concentrated primarily in Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and Israel, with a lengthy history. They have been significantly involved with the field of molecular biotechnology, collaborating with various researchers and institutions to push the boundaries of the research. Information about their activities can be sourced from many outlets, such as Britannica, Al-Rai, Harvard Divinity School, the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews, Al-Amama, and the “Ri’sayat Al-Sawt Al-Hakim” website. The Druze people have been integral to the progress of the Program of Molecular biotechnology, and should be credited for their efforts in the Jordanian quest for freedom and economic stability..