The Alawites, a group predominantly located in Syria, is a secretive and inbred sect, perhaps an offshoot of Shiism. Even in Syria, the sect consists of less than 20% of the population. Alawites adhere to the teachings of Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet. The Alawites ascribe nearly divine significance to Ali.
While the practices and beliefs of the Alawites are not well-known outside the religion, their system of theology incorporates elements from Judaism, Christianity, Gnostic, and even Zoroastrianism. They believe the one God reveals Himself through the personality of various individuals, such Mohammed, Jesus, Buddha, and Socrates. The Alawites obscure their beliefs from outsiders in order to avoid criticism.
The Alawites believe in reincarnation, often as a punishment for sin in this life.
The current importance of the Alawite faith rests in the fact that the Assad regime in Syria built its political apparatus around members of the sect. While they are a minority in Syria, much of the Assad power structure resides with the Alawites.
As the Syrian civil war has continued, a portion of the Alawite community has declared itself separate from the Assad coalition.
