The Yazidis two parts

Author's name: Zuhair Kazem Aboud Publisher: Sutur for Publishing and Distribution Year of publication: 2025 Literary classification: History and Religions Book overview: The Yazidis are an ancient religion with deep roots in Middle Eastern history, originating in the Mesopotamian region and spreading in Iraq, Syria, Turkey, and reaching parts of Russia and Armenia. Today, they are considered one of the oldest living beliefs that have preserved their rituals and traditions despite turbulent eras and ongoing persecution. The book highlights the role of Adi bin Musafir in renewing the Yazidi religion, as he is regarded as its renewer and the founder of its spiritual and organizational foundations. He had a significant impact on shaping the identity of the community and reorganizing its religious and social institutions. He revived the spiritual heritage and linked it to its old Sufi and esoteric roots. The figure of Tawus Malik holds a central position in Yazidi belief; he is considered their chief angel, not as portrayed by defamation campaigns as a symbol of evil. This unique idea has made Yazidis falsely accused of worshipping evil, while their sacred texts affirm the oneness of God and His transcendence from any likeness. No religion or sect has caused as much disagreement and contradiction as the Yazidis, due to reasons including the fact that most of what was written about them in the past was by those unfamiliar with their beliefs and practices, or who did not live among them personally, or who lacked close knowledge of their religion, rituals, and social relations. They relied on stories and legends, and their secretive nature and closed-off attitude toward outsiders, along with fears stemming from wars and massacres inflicted upon them, prevented contact. Additionally, Yazidi children were historically prevented from reading and writing, leading to widespread ignorance and illiteracy within their communities. Historically, there was little direct contribution from them in publishing insights into their religion or clarifying their philosophical foundations, due to strict religious teachings that emphasize secrecy, concealment, and keeping beliefs within the community, forbidding speaking about them to outsiders. Although Yazidi history contains a rich treasury of tales, legends, myths, poetry, hymns, prayers, and accumulated facts over time, no one has delved into it, nor has it attracted researchers. However, the fragmented historical study does not suffice, and a return to the original sources of this religion is necessary, which will greatly contribute to understanding the true Yazidi faith. This book is a contribution to uncovering facts and information about the intriguing social life in Iraq, exploring their true beliefs, religious symbols, sacred places, religious edicts that have persecuted them, their religious texts, women, and occasions of joy among them. The book aims to enrich the Arab library with a research on the Yazidis that is based on truth and objectivity.