Definition

Noun: 1. A member of a monotheistic religious community: The Druze are an ethnoreligious group originating in the Near East, primarily found in Syria, Lebanon, Israel, and Jordan. Their faith, which emerged in the 11th century, is considered an offshoot of Isma'ili Shi'a Islam but incorporates other philosophical and Gnostic elements. It is a closed, esoteric religion. 2. An adherent of the Druze faith: A Druze follows the teachings of prophets including Jethro, Moses, Jesus, Muhammad, and the Fatimid caliph al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah, whom they believe was a divine manifestation.

Usage and Examples

• Noun:
  • The Druze have a strong tradition of military service and loyalty to the countries in which they reside.
  • She is a Druze, and her community is known for its secrecy and solidarity.
  • A conference was held to discuss the political rights of the Druze minority in the region.

Advanced Usage

• "Druze community": Refers to the collective social and religious group.
  • The Druze community in this city is well-integrated yet maintains its distinct identity.
• "Druze faith" or "Druze religion": Refers specifically to the belief system.
  • The core texts of the Druze faith are known only to a small, initiated religious elite.

Variants and Related Words

• Druze (adjective): Pertaining to the Druze people or their religion.
  • Druze villages are often located in mountainous areas.
• Druse: An alternate, less common spelling for "Druze".

Synonyms

• Unitarians: A historical name sometimes used for the Druze, referencing their strict monotheism. (Note: This is not common in modern usage and should be used with historical context.)
• There are no direct synonyms, as "Druze" is a proper noun referring to a specific ethnoreligious identity.

Notes on Meaning

The term Druze functions exclusively as a proper noun. It refers to both the individual adherent and, collectively, to the people and their religion. The definition highlights key characteristics: the esoteric nature of the faith, the belief in the divinity of al-Hakim, and the practice of taqiyya (religious dissimulation), which allows outward conformity to dominant faiths for protection.

Noun

1. an adherent of an esoteric monotheistic religious sect living in the relative security of the mountains of Syria and Lebanon who believes that Al-hakim was an incarnation of God
   • a Druze is permitted to conform outwardly to the faith of the unbelievers among whom he lives