The Druze are a small, secretive religious and ethnic group originating in the Middle East over a thousand years ago. They primarily live in Syria, Lebanon, Israel, and Jordan, maintaining a strong communal identity and primarily speaking Arabic. The Druze faith began as an offshoot of Ismaili Shia Islam in the early 11th century within the Fatimid Caliphate but developed into a distinct religious tradition that is no longer considered part of mainstream Islam. Their beliefs include monotheism, reincarnation, and an esoteric blend of elements from several Abrahamic religions as well as other philosophies like Hinduism. They are known for their secrecy, closed community, and the fact that conversion to their faith is not permitted. The Druze call themselves al-Muwaḥḥidūn (meaning "the Monotheists" or "the Unitarians") and hold a unique religious doctrine that emphasizes the unity of God, the eternity of the soul, and the cycle of reincarnation. The community is characterized by strong family and kinship ties, with a strong emphasis on truthfulness and loyalty. Their religious practices are often kept secret, and they discourage interfaith marriages. Historically, the Druze have faced persecution from various Muslim regimes for their distinct beliefs and have often been politically and socially isolated. Their faith blends influences from Islam, Christianity, Judaism, Gnosticism, Neoplatonism, and other traditions, honoring many prophets including Moses, Jesus, Muhammad, and uniquely considering Jethro (Moses' father-in-law) a significant prophet. The Druze religion is monotheistic but not Islamic in the orthodox sense, and its adherents are sometimes seen as a separate ethnoreligious group rather than simply a Muslim sect. They are also known for their political engagement in the modern Middle East while maintaining their social and religious distinctiveness.