Foreword
This bibliography on the Druze represents the beginning of a new effort to stimulate interest in the study of Druze history and culture. Over the last thousand years, the Druze have played an active role in the political, social and cultural development of the Arab East. Indeed, wherever in the world they have lived, they have made significant contributions and maintained a sense of solidarity as well as an attitude of openness towards other communities and cultures. They have also been known for holding to an ethical code that emphasizes honour, honesty, trust and respect for others.
As shown by this bibliography, much has been written about the Druze. Many of these writings have been informative and fair, while others have lacked accuracy, depth, or thoroughness. Other works, by Druze authors, have covered a wide range of subjects in the fields of history, literature, and the arts and sciences in general; such studies form an important part of the Druze heritage.
Recently, the Druze Heritage Foundation was established to promote the scholarly study of Druze history and culture. In order to achieve its goal, the Foundation will seek to encourage research and publication in areas that are relevant to the history and secular life of the Druze community.
The Foundation aspires to establish an information centre and library that will house copies of all that has been written about the Druze. The centre’s resources will be made available for the use of anyone interested in knowing more about the Druze.
The present bibliography, which will be periodically updated, is a first step toward the establishment of the Druze Heritage centre.
The Foundation will gladly consider adding any suggested material to future editions of this volume.
The Druze Heritage Foundation has been fortunate in obtaining the assistance of the Royal Institute for Inter-Faith Studies and its director, Professor Kamal Salibi, a renowned authority on Lebanese and Middle Eastern history, in preparing this bibliography.
Salim Kheireddine
The Druze Heritage Foundation
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