Yezidi

Yezidi is an ethnoreligious community following the Yezidi faith.

Overview

The Yezidi are a Kurdish-speaking community primarily found in northern Iraq, with diaspora communities worldwide. The Yezidi faith is one of the oldest continuously practiced religions in the world, with roots in ancient Mesopotamian traditions. The religion is monotheistic with a complex angelology.

Method/Content

Yezidi theology centers on the worship of God (Xwê) through thePeacock Angel (Melek Taus), one of seven angels. The faith has a strict caste system and endogamy rules. Sacred texts include the Yazidi Black Book (Mishefa Res) and the Book of Revelation (Kitêba Cilwe). Religious practice centers on pilgrimages to shrines and holy sites, particularly Lalish.

Purpose/Benefits

The Yezidis preserve one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions. Their faith maintains ancient Mesopotamian religious traditions and provides a distinct cultural and religious identity for the community.

Verification Notes

• Estimated 500,000-1 million adherents worldwide
• Lalish in northern Iraq is the holiest Yezidi site