Surname Alawis - Meaning and Origin
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Alawis: What does the surname Alawis mean?
The last name Alawis (sometimes spelled Alawi or Alawee) is a name that has its roots in Arabic culture. The name is most commonly associated with members of the Alawi Shia sect of Islam, although it is also used by some non-Alawi Muslims.
The etymology of the word Alawis is widely debated in both the academic and religious spheres. One of the theories claims that the word is derived from al-Ali, which is an Arabic honorific meaning “the high,” “the noble,” or “the exalted one.” This title was given to members of the Prophet Muhammad’s immediate family. In addition, there is a view that the word is derived from the term “ahl al-Mutahhara,” meaning “the purified ones.”
Historically, the Alawis have been an oppressed minority group. They have been the target of many extreme forms of discrimination, persecution, and genocide throughout the centuries. Despite this, the Alawis have made considerable cultural, economic, and political contributions to their societies. They have worked to preserve their cultural identity and heritage by maintaining their religious traditions and practices, while also embracing modernity.
Overall, the last name Alawis is deeply embedded in the history and culture of the Alawi Shia people. It represents a sense of honour and greatness for those who bear the prestigious last name. Despite facing much adversity, the Alawis have and continue to lead lives that are full of passion and dedication to their culture, religion, and communities.
Order DNA origin analysisAlawis: Where does the name Alawis come from?
The last name Alawis is a variation of the original Arabic name Ali. It is most commonly used in the Middle East and North Africa today, particularly in countries such as Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq, which have historically high populations of Alawis. The Alawis are a religious minority, derived from an offshoot of the Shiite version of Islam, located mainly in the country of Syria. The term "Alawi" was coined in the nineteenth century to describe adherents of this branch of Shiism, which is today recognized as a major branch of Islam in the region.
The religious identity of the Alawis has resulted in them experiencing extreme discrimination and marginalization in a region that is over ninety percent Muslim. This persecution, coupled with constant fear of reprisal from both Muslims and Christians, has led to a large-scale exodus of Alawis from Syria. As a result, large numbers of Alawis now live in other countries such as Lebanon and Iraq.
The Alawis have a strong communal tradition and culture, and they often refer to themselves as ‘Ahl-ul Momenin’ (or ‘people of faith'), emphasizing their loyalty to their faith, even in the face of bigotry. They also place great value on education and family values. Despite the discrimination they face, Alawis have a strong sense of identity and their faith is an integral part of who they are.
Variations of the surname Alawis
The surname Alawis is mainly used in countries such as Syria, Lebanon and Turkey. In many cases, the same origin and spelling are used, along with variants and other spellings of the name, which can be seen across the Middle Eastern region.
In Arabic, the spelling of Alawis is “العلوية”, whereas in Turkish, the spelling is “Alevi”. Other spellings of the surname include Alawiyya, Alawite, Alevi, Alawi, Alywi, Alyvi, Alvi, Alvaee, Aleviyye, Alavee, Alyviye, and Alwee.
Variations of the surname in other countries include “Alavi” in Iran, and “Aloewi” in Germany. Additionally, there are surnames that evolved from Alawis, such as Al-Husseini and Al-Suleimani.
In certain cases, Alawis may be used as a first name, with variants such as Alev, Alevi and Alyvi.
In summary, the surname Alawis is likely to be spelled and pronounced differently in different countries. Its variants and spellings exist not only in Arabic, Turkish and Persian, but in many European countries as well. Common derivatives and surnames that evolved from this main surname are also quite likely to exist.
Famous people with the name Alawis
- Bashar al-Assad: the current president of Syria;
- Mansour al-Atrash: renowned Syrian musician and composer;
- Marwan Muasher: prominent Jordanian politician;
- Maher al-Assad: former Syrian defense minister;
- Hasan Al-Atrash: notable Syrian filmmaker and actor;
- Majed Al-Assad: former Syrian Prime Minister;
- Rifaat al-Assad: former Vice President of Syria;
- Asma al-Assad: Syrian first lady;
- Ghalioun al-Assad: Syrian General;
- Reem al-Assad: Syrian business executive;
- Wa'el Al-Assad: Syrian business executive;
- Mohammad Daoud al-Assad: former Syrian Ambassador;
- Joudy Alawis: Syrian lawyer;
- Mahammad al-Assad: Syrian doctor and captain in the Syrian Army;
- Bashar al-Zoubi: Syrian doctor;
- Khadijeh Al-Atrash: Syrian business executive;
- Fahed al-Assad: Syrian lawyer;
- Bayan al-Assad: Syrian engineer.