Historical dictionary of the Druzes

"The Druzes are one of the smallest, least studied, and most esoteric religious communities in the Middle East because of the teachings' inaccessibility to both outsiders and uninitiated members within the Druze community. Furthermore, proselytizing has been prohibited since the establishment of the sect in the 11th century. In order to resist assimilation by the various empires and colonial powers that sought to dominate them (the Byzantines, Arab dynasties, the Mamluks and Ottomans, the British and French, in addition to the nations that govern them), the Druzes disguise and conceal their beliefs . Historical Dictionary of the Druzes contains nearly 1,000 concise and informative entries on religious, political, and cultural themes, as well as major families and individuals (artists, writers, diplomats, and leaders) who have contributed to Druze communities. Also provided are a chronology, introductory essay, bibliography, and several maps, plates, and genealogical tables."--BOOK JACKET.