The Yazidis (Yezidis) are an ethno-religious community with ancient roots, living primarily in Iraq, Syria, Turkey, and Armenia. Their religion, Yazidism, is a distinct monotheistic faith with influences from Zoroastrianism, Islam, Christianity, and other ancient Middle Eastern religions.
1. Central Beliefs
One God (Xwede): Yazidis believe in a single, almighty God who created the world.
Melek Taus (Angel Peacock): The most important angel and highest servant of God, often misunderstood as "devil worship" because his myth bears similarities to the Islamic figure of Iblis. However, in Yazidi doctrine, he is a divine messenger and guardian of the world.
Reincarnation: Yazidis believe in the transmigration of souls and spiritual purification through reincarnation.
Holy Scripture: There are two main texts – the Kitêbê Cilwe (Book of Revelation) and the Mishefa Reล (Black Book), although many religious traditions are passed on orally.
2. Social and Religious Structures
Caste System: Yazidis are divided into spiritual classes – Sheikhs, Pirs, and Murids (believers).
Endogamy: Marriage outside the Yazidi community is not permitted to preserve the purity of the faith.
Pilgrimage to Lalish: The Temple of Lalish (in northern Iraq) is the most important Yazidi shrine.
3. History & Persecution
Yazidis have historically been misunderstood and persecuted, particularly under the Ottoman Empire and more recently by ISIS terror (2014) in northern Iraq. Thousands of Yazidis were killed or enslaved, and many were forced to flee.
4. Present & Diaspora
Today, an estimated 1 million Yazidis live, including large communities in Germany, Armenia, and Georgia. Germany is home to one of the largest Yazidi diasporas in the world.
Yazidi Rituals, Festivals, and Spiritual Practices
The Yazidis have a unique spiritual tradition, strongly influenced by oral tradition. Their rituals and festivals reflect the cycle of nature and their spiritual connection with God and Melek Taus.
1. Important Rituals & Spiritual Practices
๐๏ธ Baptism (Mor Kirin)
Yazidis perform baptism with holy water from the Lalish spring.
It is usually performed in infancy and is considered a spiritual purification.
๐ฏ๏ธ Prayer (Dua)
Yazidis pray twice a day (morning and evening) facing the sun.
During prayer, they kiss the earth as a sign of humility.
There are no permanent mosques or churches – prayers can be performed anywhere.
๐ฅ Holy Fire & Candles
Fire is considered sacred because it symbolizes light and purity.
Candles are lit in honor of the angels, especially in shrines like Lalish.
๐ Water as an Element of Purification
Rivers and springs are considered sacred.
Ritual washing is often performed before important religious ceremonies.
๐ณ Respect for Nature
Yazidis believe that plants, animals, and the earth have spiritual powers.
Certain trees and springs are considered sacred.
2. Important Yazidi Festivals
๐ Pilgrimage to Lalish (Jama Festival) – ๐ The most important festival!
When? Every year in October (first week).
Where? In the Sacred Valley of Lalish in northern Iraq.
Significance:
Believers from all over the world make pilgrimages to Lalish.
They visit the tomb of Sheikh Adi, a central spiritual figure of the Yazidis.
There are prayers, offerings, dances, and spiritual ceremonies.
๐ New Year's Festival (Sersal / Çarลema Sor – Red Wednesday)
When? First Wednesday in April.
Meaning:
Symbolizes the creation of the world and the victory of light over darkness.
Houses are decorated with eggs and flowers.
Melek Taus is said to have blessed the earth on this day.
Tradition:
Women dye eggs (similar to Easter).
Fires are lit to celebrate light and warmth.
๐ Lent (Rojîyên Êzî)
When? December (three days).
Meaning:
Serves inner purification and reflection.
One abstains from food and drink from sunrise to sunset.
After the fast: A feast with family and friends.
๐ The Great Fasting Festival (Yazi Festival)
When? After the three-day fast in December.
Meaning:
Gratitude for the gifts of the earth.
Prayers for good luck and protection in the coming year.
Tradition:
Offerings (e.g., bread and sweets) are distributed.
Visits to family and friends.
๐ซ Remembrance Days for the Deceased
Yazidis remember their ancestors on certain days by donating food and lighting candles for the souls of the deceased.
Cemeteries are important spiritual places for prayer and reflection.
3. Special Prohibitions & Traditions
โ Important Prohibitions in the Yazidi Tradition
Marriage outside of the faith is not permitted (endogamy rule).
Certain foods, such as salad, are taboo because they are considered impure.
The word "Satan" (ลeytan) may not be uttered, as it is considered blasphemous.
๐ณ Meaning of Pri
Dervishes and Dervishes
Sheikhs and Pîrs are spiritual teachers who impart knowledge.
Qewwals are religious singers who spread sacred songs and prayers.
Conclusion: A Mystical and Ancient Religion
Yazidism is a deeply rooted spiritual tradition based on oral traditions, nature worship, and the search for harmony. The rituals surrounding light, fire, and water, in particular, reflect the central theme of the faith: the connection between humanity, nature, and divinity.
