Comprehensive Definition:
“Lebanon, Islam in” refers to the diverse presence and dynamics of Islam within Lebanon. Lebanon is unique in its confessional political system, where proportions of governmental authority are distributed among recognized religious sects. The major Muslim sects in Lebanon include Sunnis, Shiis, Druze, Alawis, and Ismailis. While Sunnis are found in coastal cities and Shiis predominantly in the north and south, each group plays a distinct role in the Lebanese socio-political landscape. Druze and Alawis, though smaller, have their significance due to historical and geopolitical influences.
Etymology:
- Sunni: Derives from the Arabic word “Sunnah,” meaning tradition or path.
- Shii: From the Arabic “Shī‘a,” meaning “party” or “followers” of Ali, the cousin, and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad.
- Druze: Likely derived from the word “Durūz,” referencing an early preacher named Nashtakin ad-Darazi.
- Alawi: Originating from “Alawīyah,” signifying followers of Ali, with additional religious beliefs specific to this group.
- Ismaili: Named after Isma’il ibn Jafar, the eldest son of the sixth Shia Imam, indicating followers of this line.
Historical Context and Dates:
- Civil War Era (1975-1990): Sectarian diversity played crucial roles, particularly in the year of Taif Agreement in 1989, which attempted to balance political power.
- 1990s Onwards: Post-Gulf War influence saw the rise of Alawi contributions due to Syrian intervention imprints on local politics.
Social and Cultural Impact:
Sunnis generally hold a higher social and economic status compared to Shiis. This disparity led to increasing demands by Shiis for better educational and employment opportunities as they became the largest confessional group by the 1980s. The Druze, although smaller in percentage, play a considerable role in nuanced inter-sectarian diplomacy. Alawis, despite being numerically insignificant in Lebanon, augmented their prominence after Syria’s involvement in Lebanon’s internal affairs beginning in the early 1990s. Ismailis constitute a tiny fraction and maintain a low-key presence.
Synonyms and Related Terms:
- Lebanese Politics
- Sectarianism in Lebanon
- Maronite Presidency
Antonyms:
- Homogeneity
- Secularism
Exciting Facts:
- Despite the sectarian diversity, Lebanese Muslims collectively celebrate Muslim festivals like Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha.
- The Lebanese political system mandates that its President is a Maronite Christian, the Prime Minister is a Sunni Muslim, and the Speaker of the Parliament is a Shii Muslim.
Quotations:
- “Lebanon is a tapestry woven from the threads of many religious and sectarian communities, each contributing to the rich pattern of its history.” – Fictitious Author, Layla Maktabi
- “The beauty of Lebanon lies in its mosaic of cultures, languages, and religions living side by side.” – Fictitious Sociologist, Kamal Zain
Suggested Literature:
- “The Druze between Palestine and Israel 1947-49,” by L. Nisan.
- “Hezbollah: A History of the “Party of God” by H. Alagha.
- “Lebanon: The Fragmented Nation” by D. Baylouny.
Quizzes:
💫 Despite its complex sectarian landscape, Lebanon serves as an example of diverse religious cohabitation. 💫
Farewell:
“In reveling in Lebanon’s intricate tapestry, we understand that diversity, though challenging, contributes profoundly to the nation’s cultural and socio-political resilience.” — Hassan Al-Hassan, 2023.
