Lebanon

Islam in Lebanon is an essential and complex part of the country’s religious, cultural, and political fabric. Here is an overview:

1. Muslim Population in Lebanon:
Muslims make up approximately 60-65% of Lebanon’s population. The Muslim community is religiously diverse, mainly divided into:

  • Sunni Muslims (~30%)
  • Shi’a Muslims (~30%)
  • Smaller groups like Alawites and Ismailis.

2. Historical Background:

  • Islam arrived in Lebanon during the 7th century CE through the Arab Muslim conquests.
  • Over the centuries, Lebanon became a mosaic of religious groups due to migration, sectarian conflict, and foreign influence (such as the Ottoman Empire and French Mandate).

3. Sunni Islam in Lebanon:

  • Concentrated mainly in Beirut, Sidon (Saida), Tripoli (Tarablus), and the Akkar region.
  • The Sunni community has traditionally been associated with commerce and urban life.
  • Political Representation: According to Lebanon’s sectarian political system (Taif Agreement), the Prime Minister must be Sunni.

4. Shi’a Islam in Lebanon:

  • Concentrated in Southern Lebanon, the Bekaa Valley, and parts of Beirut (like Dahieh).
  • The Shi’a community historically faced socio-economic marginalization but gained power especially after the rise of Hezbollah and Amal Movement.
  • Political Representation: The Speaker of Parliament is reserved for a Shi’a Muslim.

5. Other Muslim Groups:

  • Alawites: A small community mostly residing in the north (Akkar and Tripoli).
  • Ismailis and Druze: The Druze follow an offshoot of Islam but identify as a distinct religious group; they are concentrated in Mount Lebanon and the Chouf region.

6. Islam in Public Life:

  • Islamic customs, such as Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, are national holidays.
  • Islamic law (Sharia) is applied in personal status matters (like marriage, divorce, inheritance) for Muslims, while Christians follow their own laws.
  • Islamic schools, charities, and organizations are widespread.

7. Islamic Political Influence:
Political Islam plays a crucial role in Lebanon through groups like:

  • Hezbollah (Shi’a): A powerful political and military force, backed by Iran.
  • Amal Movement (Shi’a): A major political party.
  • Sunni Islamist movements: Less organized, but influential in cities like Tripoli and Sidon.

8. Inter-Religious Relations:

  • Lebanon is unique for its 18 recognized religious sects, including Muslims, Christians, and others.
  • The delicate sectarian balance often leads to political tension but also to coexistence in daily life.
  • Some areas are religiously mixed, while others are more sectarian.

9. Challenges:

  • Sectarianism remains a divisive issue, fueling political instability.
  • Economic crises have deepened poverty in both Sunni and Shi’a areas.
  • Radicalization concerns exist, especially in impoverished Sunni regions.

10. International Importance:

  • Hezbollah’s regional role (especially in Syria and against Israel) makes Islam in Lebanon significant geopolitically.
  • Sunni-Shi’a dynamics in Lebanon reflect broader Middle Eastern tensions.

Lebanon
Country Code Top-Level Domain: .lb
Country Code: +961