Orville B Jenkins

The Yezidi, also spelled Yazidi, is a unique religious sect primarily associated with the Kurdish people, though it includes members from other ethnicities as well. Recognized as part of the broader Cult of the Angels or Yazdani, Yezidism integrates elements from various ancient religions, primarily Zoroastrianism, alongside its own sacred texts, including the Al-Jilwah and Mashaf Reš, also known as The Black Book. This sect celebrates a distinctive cosmology that honors not only a Supreme Being called Yazdan but also various divine figures, reflecting a rich spiritual tapestry.

The community has faced severe persecution, particularly in Iraq, where Yezidis have been victims of violence and discrimination due to their beliefs, which are not fully recognized as Muslim. Yezidi religious life revolves around the leadership of holy figures known as pirs and kawals, alongside the involvement of lay community members who support religious practices. Despite their challenges, the Yezidi continue to advocate for their rights and maintain their cultural identity amidst ongoing adversity.