Yazidis

Yazidis are a distinct ethno-religious group primarily found in northern Iraq, with smaller communities in Syria, Turkey, and Armenia, and a diaspora in Europe and North America. They speak Kurmanji, a Northern Kurdish dialect, and most consider themselves ethnically Kurdish. The Yazidi religion is ancient, predating Islam and Christianity, with roots possibly going back to Mesopotamian religions. It is monotheistic, worshipping one God who created the world and entrusted it to seven Holy Beings, the most important of which is Melek Taus, the Peacock Angel.

Beliefs and Practices

Yazidi beliefs are syncretic, combining elements of Zoroastrianism, Islam, Christianity, and other ancient Mesopotamian religions. Central to their faith is the worship of Melek Taus, who is considered both a source of good and evil and is represented by a peacock. Yazidis believe that Melek Taus was forgiven by God for refusing to bow to Adam and is a mediator between God and humanity.

Yazidis have a caste system, which includes the Sheikhs, Pirs, and Murids. Religious leadership is hereditary within the Sheikh and Pir families. Important religious practices include the daily prayer, the annual pilgrimage to the holy site of Lalish, and the celebration of the New Year, which has roots in ancient Mesopotamian festivals.

Persecution

Throughout history, Yazidis have faced persecution and have been falsely labeled as devil-worshippers by neighboring communities. This has led to numerous massacres, forced conversions, and displacement. The most recent and severe persecution began in 2014, when ISIS attacked Yazidi communities in Sinjar, Iraq, leading to a humanitarian and cultural genocide. Thousands of Yazidis were killed, and many more were kidnapped, sold into slavery, or displaced.

Demographics

The exact number of Yazidis is unknown, but estimates suggest there are about 700,000 to 800,000 worldwide. The largest population resides in Iraq, particularly in the Nineveh Province. The Yazidi diaspora includes communities in Germany, Sweden, and other parts of Europe, as well as North America.

Cultural Contributions

Yazidis have a rich cultural heritage, including music, dance, and storytelling, which plays a significant role in preserving their religious and ethnic identity. Their oral traditions, including sacred hymns known as Qewls, recount the creation of the world, the story of Melek Taus, and other religious narratives.

Challenges

Yazidis continue to face significant challenges, including discrimination, lack of recognition, and difficulties in practicing their religion freely. The aftermath of the ISIS genocide has left many Yazidis displaced, living in camps within Iraq and abroad. Efforts to rebuild their communities and return to their ancestral lands are ongoing but face numerous obstacles.

See Also

• Genocide of Yazidis by ISIS
• Religious persecution
• Ethnic minorities in Iraq