In a solemn and moving ceremony on Monday afternoon, July 22, 2024, a large delegation of Druze sheikhs from the Galilee, Carmel, and Golan participated in a memorial service for the late religious figure, the pious Sheikh Abu Masoud Hani Shahib (may his soul rest in peace), from Aley.
The memorial service, held at the Shrine of Sayyidna Shu'ayb (peace be upon him) in Hittin, began with a procession led by the Spiritual Leader of the Druze community and head of the Supreme Druze Religious Council, His Eminence Sheikh Abu Hassan Muwaffaq Tarif, Sheikh Abu Yusuf Saleh Qadmani, Sheikh Abu Ahmed Taher Abu Saleh, and Sheikh Abu Suleiman Faris Shams, accompanied by the keepers of the Khalwat (prayer houses), community sheikhs, and dignitaries from all Druze villages and towns.
As the memorial service commenced, those in attendance recited the Fatiha in absentia for the soul of the deceased. Following this, His Eminence Sheikh Muwaffaq Tarif delivered a community address in which he praised the late Sheikh's character, piety, and virtue, emphasizing the depth of sorrow and pain caused by the loss of such prominent figures, stating:
"What a time, unlike any before it; what desolation comes with the loss of these noble leaders, who watered the lands of souls with the rain of their grace and nourished the hearts of their brethren with their compassion. How we need them in such times, as the paths of obedience and goodness have tightened and narrowed, and as our years increase while our good deeds diminish from our scales.
How we need them, O brothers, and how we long for the pearls of their scattered wisdom, their hidden acts of righteousness, their abundant sincerity in deeds, and the goodness of their merits, intentions, and unwavering devotion to their Creator at all times and in all matters."
His Eminence's speech was followed by addresses from Sheikh Abu Ahmed Taher Abu Saleh, Sheikh Abu Kamal Hassan Abu Saleh, and Sheikh Salman Shams, on behalf of Sheikh Abu Suleiman Faris Shams.
Those in attendance were united in acknowledging the significant religious and social stature held by the deceased, noting his major role in uniting the Muwahhidun (monotheists) and strengthening the bonds of connection between them.