Knowra Yazidism Yazidism Yazidism is a monotheistic religion originating in the Kurdish regions of northern Mesopotamia. Its distinctive beliefs, oral traditions, and community life are centered on Lalish.
Tawûsê Melek : The Peacock Angel, a central divine being in Yazidi belief who serves as God's regent in the world. Yazidi accounts place this figure at the center of divine governance and religious identity.
Yazidi New Year : A Yazidi spring festival, also called Çarşema Sor, observed on the first Wednesday of April in the Julian calendar. The festival expresses creation themes through communal celebration and distinctive customs.
Sheikh Adi ibn Musafir : A Muslim mystic of the twelfth century whose shrine at Lalish became the central sanctuary of Yazidism. His life and shrine shaped the tradition's institutional and sacred geography.
Islam : A monotheistic Abrahamic religion based on the Qur'an and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad. Yazidism arose in a predominantly Muslim region but has distinct scriptures, practices, and religious identity.
Yazidi oral literature : The hymns, narratives, and religious teachings transmitted orally within Yazidi communities. Oral transmission preserves sacred knowledge alongside practices that historically limited written disclosure.
Assembly of the Yazidis : An annual Yazidi pilgrimage and religious gathering held at Lalish, traditionally lasting seven days in autumn. The gathering brings dispersed communities together at their holiest sanctuary.
Adawiyya : A Sufi order founded around the teachings of Sheikh Adi ibn Musafir in the medieval period. Yazidism developed in a region where the Adawiyya and Sheikh Adi's legacy were influential.
Zoroastrianism : An Iranian religion centered on the worship of Ahura Mazda and teachings associated with Zarathustra. Comparisons often arise from shared regional history and fire-related practices, though the traditions differ.
Lalish : A sacred valley and temple complex in northern Iraq, regarded as the holiest place in Yazidism. Pilgrimage to Lalish anchors communal worship and religious belonging.
Yazidi marriage : Marriage practices within Yazidi communities, shaped by religious rules and inherited social affiliations. Marriage norms help maintain communal continuity and the boundaries of religious membership.
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