Alawite in Syria

Introduction / History

In the Jabal al-Nusayriyah, the mountain ranges of northwestern Syria that overlook the Mediterranean Sea, the Alawi community has maintained itself for over one thousand years, fiercely clinging to its syncretistic secret religion. The 'Alawis have survived as a distinct group despite repeated persecution and the threat of extinction by the Sunni majority and rulers who considered them pagans and heretics who were not eligible for the status of a protected religion."Alawi" is the term that Alawis usually apply to themselves; but until 1920 they were known to the outside world as "Nusayris" or "Ansaris". The change in name, imposed by the French upon their seizure of control in Syria, has significance. Whereas "Nusayri" emphasizes the group's differences from Islam, "Alawi" suggests an adherent of Ali and accentuates the religion's similarities to Shia Islam.Three-quarters of the Syrian Alawis live in the northwestern province of Latakia, where they make up almost two-thirds of the population.

What Are Their Lives Like?

When the Assad family was in power, Alawites had privileges. Today, they are in a state of transition.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The mountainous areas of Syria have always been a safe haven for minority groups seeking security. Three Islamic sects found refuge there: the Assassins (Nizari Isma'ilis) and the Druze, who were direct offshoots of the Isma'ili Sevener Fatimids of Egypt, and the Alawis, who were based on extremist Twelver Shia thought mixed with syncretic Christian and traditional influences. The Alawi are one of several groups of extremist Shia sects known as the Ghulat (exaggerators). While most Shia groups revere Ali and his family, the Ghulat have gone beyond veneration, considering Ali to be the very manifestation of God.A visitor will not encounter an Alawite who will discuss the particulars of his beliefs. In fact, an Alawite would tell the visitor he is a Muslim since he sees himself as one. The common Alawite person does not even know his group's teachings, because they are so secret.The Alawis believe that all people were stars in the world of light but fell from there due to disobedience. They believe they must be reincarnated seven times before they once again return to the stars. If they are sinful, they will be reborn as Christians until their atonement is complete. Infidels will be reborn as animals. The actual Alawi beliefs and practices are based on their book, the "Kitab al-Majmu".

What Are Their Needs?

Alawite life in Syria is in peril since the Assad family was ousted from power. The Sunni Muslim majority was abused by the Assads, and many are now seeking revenge. Alawites need God’s protection.

Prayer Points

Pray for God to protect Syrian Alawites from those who seek retribution.Pray that this time of trials and difficulties for Alawites in Syria will give them the humility it takes to seek and find the only Savior.Pray for those who will accept God's saving grace to find his strength to meet all spiritual challenges.May Alawite people be grounded in knowing God's word, and the one who is the Light of the world.Pray that entire Alawite families and communities will accept the gospel and become a living witness to Muslims in Syria.

Text Source:   Joshua Project