As a cultural and religious studies expert, I'm often asked about various ethnoreligious groups around the world. The Druze of Lebanon is a fascinating subject that intertwines history, religion, and culture. The Druze are an ethnoreligious group with a distinct identity, originating from the Near East. They are known for their esoteric religious beliefs, which are a branch of the Ismaili sect of Shia Islam. The faith emphasizes the importance of spiritual enlightenment and moral living, and it has a strong emphasis on the unity of God, hence their self-identification as unitarians (Muwahhideen).

The Druze faith is a closed religion, meaning that it is not open to new converts outside of birth into a Druze family. This closed nature has contributed to the relatively small size of the community, which is estimated to be around 5.6% of Lebanon's population. However, the Druze have a significant cultural and political influence in Lebanon, which is disproportionate to their numbers.

The origins of the Druze faith can be traced back to the 11th century, when it was founded by Hamza ibn Ali ibn Ahmad, who was declared by his followers to be an incarnation of God. The religion has a complex theological system that includes elements of Gnosticism, Neoplatonism, and Sufism, along with Islamic, Christian, and Jewish influences.

The Lebanese Druze community is known for its strong sense of unity and cohesion. They have a unique social structure and maintain a distinct cultural identity within Lebanon. The Druze have their own religious leaders, known as the Uqqal, who are considered to have special spiritual knowledge. The community also has a tradition of valuing education and has produced many scholars and intellectuals.

Politically, the Druze have played a significant role in Lebanon's history. They have been involved in various political movements and have held positions of power within the Lebanese government. The Druze are also known for their martial traditions and have contributed to the military history of the region.

In terms of social organization, the Druze community is organized around a system of religious and social hierarchy. The Uqqal are at the top of this hierarchy, followed by the Juwwab, who are the religious leaders accessible to the general community. The Druze also have a strong tradition of communal support and mutual aid.

Culturally, the Druze have a rich heritage that includes unique customs, festivals, and rituals. They celebrate several religious festivals, such as the Mawlid al-Nabi, which marks the birth of the founder of the Druze faith. The Druze also have a tradition of music and poetry, which are integral parts of their social gatherings and celebrations.

It's important to note that while the Druze are predominantly found in Lebanon, they also have communities in Syria, Israel, and Jordan. The Druze diaspora has contributed to the preservation and spread of their unique culture and traditions.

In conclusion, the Druze of Lebanon represent a vibrant and influential community with a rich history and a unique religious and cultural identity. Their contributions to Lebanese society and their distinctive way of life make them an important part of the country's diverse tapestry.

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Druze people in Lebanon refers to adherents of the Druze faith, an ethnoreligious esoteric group originating from the Near East who self identify as unitarians (Muwahhideen). The Lebanese Druze people are believed to constitute about 5.6% of the total population of Lebanon.read more >>