Current horrible events in Syria prompted me to write about the Druze, a small little-known minority found mostly in Israel, Lebanon and Syria. The posts combine personal experiences from trips to Druze villages, and information gathered open sources on the Internet.
Enjoy!
Under the Oak Tree in Yanuh-Jat- Intro to the Druze
Under the blessed oak tree at Yanuh-Jat, we received an introduction to Druze history, culture and society, from its origins in Egypt to Israel
Druze – Israel’s Mountain Allies and Tactics of Survival
Druze are a tiny religious minority in Israel and the world, yet they are fearless warriors, who over years of persecution have developed effective tactics of survival. Druze are indispensable to the Israeli army, and well integrated into society.
Druze Crisis in Syria – Horrors, Analysis, and What Next?
July 13th 2024 was the Druze day of indescribable horrors, their “October 7th” so to speak. I bring analysis from some intelligent journalists and questions about the future.
Druze Secret Religion – For the Chosen Few
Druze religion is secretive, known only to those who choose a strict and demanding religious life. Honorability, clean tongue and conduct are required. Lay people are bound by less rules, but must marry within the community.
Druze Cemeteries – State, Religion, and the Soul
Visit to a Druze military cemetery, civil “cemetery” and tombs of Sheikh Amin Tarif and daughter in Julis. Normally, no civil graves or mourning as Druze reincarnate.
Yarka and Julis, Two Quaint Galilean Druze Villages
Strolling through old Yarka reveals inner gardened courts, pleasant people, women and men’s street art, and the blessed Ali Fares’s nukta.
Druze Women – Juggling Tradition and Moderna
Highly educated, capable, motivated, artistic and devout, religious Druze women are still not allowed to drive. Hopefully, this will change soon.