Bashar Al-Assad is an Alawite. The Alawite doctrine incorporates Gnostics, Neo-Platonic, Islam, Christianity and other elements often described as syncretistic. Alawites tend to conceal their beliefs due to historical persecution. Some of the tenets of their faith is secret. Therefore they have been described as a mystical sect. Alawites hold that they were originally stars or divine lights that were cast out of heaven through disobedience and must undergo repeated reincarnation before returning to heaven. They can be reincarnated as Christians or others through sin and as animals if they become infidels. Other beliefs and practices include; The consecration of wine in a secret form of Mass only open to males, burying them in saracophegi above ground, observing Nowruz, Epiphany, Christmas and the Feast days of John Chrysostom and Mary Magdalene. The only religious structures they have are the shrines of the tombs. The central source of their doctrine comes from an alleged book, “Katib Al Majmi.” They also believe women do not have souls. Before the Arab Spring Christians were given protection in Syria under Assad. Since the Syrian civil war started millions of Christians have fled Syria and thousands have been slaughtered! Comment: Why did Assad protect the Christians? They could be his ancestors who have been reincarnated as Christians! Thankyou. James and Hamsa Sasse. GodWhoisGod.com