EXPOSED: The Ghassanid Myth

by Elias Antonius

Most Christians of the Levant have long been indoctrinated into believing they are descendants of ancient Arab tribes that were part of a mass migration to the region, and eventually converted to Christianity rather than Islam. It’s a belief, which is the cornerstone of Arabist Christian thinking. However, to the displeasure of Arabist authorities, more and more throughout the region are beginning to see this outdated badge of pride as a misguided myth. A failed coping mechanism, in order to prevent discrimination at the hands of the Islamic majority.

An Ideological Comparison: Antiochenism vs Phoenicianism

An Ideological Comparison: Antiochenism vs Phoenicianism
By Elias Antonius

Since the fall of the Ottoman Caliphate, Lebanese-Rûm have found themselves in a very unique position. Inhabitants of an enlarged Mount Lebanon Governorate, which became known as the French Mandate of Lebanon. Lebanese-Rûm found themselves citizens of the only Christian safe haven in the Levant, as Lebanon was originally established as a homeland for Maronites.

An Ideological Comparison: Rûm Alternatives to Arabism

An Ideological Comparison: Rûm Alternatives to Arabism
by Elias Antonius

For decades now, Levantine-Rûm who rejected Arabism have been left with only one valid ideological alternative, Pan-Syrianism. That is until recently, with the emergence of Antiochenism. However, with the development of this new alternative comes many questions. What are the ideological differences between Pan-Syrianism and Antiochenism? Are there any similarities between these two alternatives to Arabism?