The call was suspended briefly between 19 May 1018 and 9 May 1019 CE during the
apostasy of
ad-Darazi and again between 1021 and 1026 CE during a period of persecution by
Ali az-Zahir for those who had sworn the
oath to accept the call. It promoted absolute
monotheism and the concepts of supporting your fellow man, true speech and pursuit of oneness with God. These concepts superseded all
ritual, law and
dogma and requirements for
pilgrimage,
fasting,
holy days,
prayer, charity,
devotion,
profession of faith and particular worship of any prophet or person was downplayed.
Islamic law was opposed and Druze traditions started during the call continue today, such as meeting for reading, prayer and social gathering on a Thursday instead of a Friday at
Khalwats instead of mosques. Such gatherings and traditions were not compulsory and people were encouraged to pursue a state of compliance with the real law of nature governing the universe. Epistle thirteen of the
Epistles of Wisdom called it
"A spiritual doctrine without any ritualistic imposition". In 1043
al-Muqtana declared that the sect would no longer accept new pledges, and since that time
proselytization has been prohibited awaiting al-Hakim's return on
Judgement day to usher in a new
golden age. == See also ==