Arab Alawism

Arab Alawites are an Arabic-speaking faith community living mainly in Syria, Lebanon and southern Turkey (Hatay, Adana, Mersin). They have been known by different names over time; most describe themselves as Alawi or Alevi. In Turkey, “Arap Alevileri” (Arab Alevis) distinguishes the community from Anatolian Alevis.

The oneness of God, love for the Ahl al-Bayt, the Twelve Imams and ethics are central to the community’s self-understanding. The tradition distinguishes between outward and inner meaning. Some matters of faith are traditionally passed on only within religious instruction.

The tradition goes back to 9th-century Iraq. In the following centuries its centre shifted to Aleppo and the Syrian coastal mountains. The Ottoman period, the new borders of the 20th century and migration shaped the community’s present-day geography. Some dates and events are still debated among researchers.

Festivals, shrines, family memory and oral tradition are at the heart of the community’s cultural life. Practice can differ from region to region and from family to family.

Today many Arab Alawite families live in Europe, especially in Germany. For young people growing up in the diaspora, language, identity and the passing on of tradition raise new questions. The academy wants to be a place where answers are sought together.