Druze is an Arab sect. The Druze community in Israel is officially recognized as a separate religious entity with its own courts (with jurisdiction in matters of personal status - marriage, divorce, maintenance and adoption) and spiritual leadership. Their culture and language are Arabic. The Druze community in Israel has a special standing among the country's minority groups. Members of the community have attained high-level positions in the political, public and military spheres. Since the War of Independence in 1948, the Druze have served in the Israeli Defense Forces and the Border Police - first as volunteers and later within the draft system. The Druze religion has its roots in Islam (from approximately 1000 c.e.) blending Islamic monotheism with Greek philosophy and Hindu influences. The community has been closed to outsiders since 1050 c.e.