In unraveling the conflict in Syria, one cannot ignore the sectarian underpinnings that have fueled Bashar al-Assad's regime. The Alawites, a religious group described as an 'unconventional' fusion between Islam and Christianity, have long been a cornerstone of Assad's authoritarian rule. This deep dive into Alawism not only sheds light on the peculiarities of this sect but also underscores how sectarian affiliations have been exploited for political dominance in the Middle East, challenging the West's understanding of Islamic diversity.
Alawism: The Sectarian Base behind Assad's Power
All Versions
Jan-20
Religion
Score: 0.40
In reading up on the civil war in Syria, I learned that the recently overthrown President Bashar al-Assad and the members of his ruling faction are Alawites. Digging deeper, I found that Alawism is a strange mash-up of Islam and Christianity.
From Patheos
Jan-20
Religion
Left Variant
Score: 0.20
In the context of Syria's tumultuous civil conflict, it is paramount to explore the intricate beliefs of the Alawite community, which has been mistakenly simplified as a mere 'mash-up' of Islam and Christianity. This dismissive portrayal does a disservice to the Alawites, especially considering how the Assad regime's political actions have been erroneously conflated with religious practices. A deeper understanding of Alawism reveals a rich tapestry of spiritual beliefs that defy simplistic categorization and highlight the necessity of religious inclusivity in our global dialogue.
From Patheos