Additional PDF Profile

Introduction / History

The Yazidi people, an ancient Kurdish community, adhere to a unique religious tradition with roots linking to Zoroastrianism, with elements from Hinduism, Judaism, Christianity and Islam.

Primarily situated in the Nineveh province of northern Iraq, the Yazidi culture lies in the sacred valley of Lalish. While people of Yazidis exist in Syria, Turkey, Armenia and Georgia, significant emigration has led to sizable communities in parts of Europe. The majority of Turkish Yazidis have resettled in Germany, while Armenian and Georgian populations largely migrated to Russia. Sweden has also seen a notable Yazidi presence since 2008. A number of them are also in Ukraine.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Yazidis have faced persecution, particularly under Saddam Hussein's regime, and have long endured misconceptions propagated by dominant Muslim communities. Labeled as "devil worshippers," largely due to their reverence for the "Peacock Angel," they have suffered marginalization and prejudice. In addition to this, they have suffered genocide from Islamic State (IS) Group especially their Iraq members.

They practice monogamy, although some leaders may practice polygamy. As a closed community, they limit interactions with outsiders, forbid conversions, and traditionally enforce strict measures against interfaith marriage, including honor killings, as exemplified by the tragic case of Du'a Khalil Aswad in 2007.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Central to Yazidi belief is the narrative of God's creation, wherein seven archangels govern the world. The Peacock Angel, known as Melek Taus or Shaytan, holds a major role, having defied God's command to bow to Adam and subsequently granted stewardship over the earthly realm. This narrative bears resemblance to Islamic teachings regarding Satan's defiance yet diverges in its portrayal of the Peacock Angel's redemption.

Yazidi spirituality revolves around angelic veneration, with set rituals such as fasting and prayer directed towards celestial beings. Prohibitions against the color blue and certain foods symbolize adherence to religious norms, while sacred practices like pilgrimage to Lalish underscore their faith's significance.

Their distinct calendar, marking time with a 4,750-year deviation from the Gregorian calendar, reflects their unique cosmology. Additionally, Yazidi mythology asserts their lineage from Adam through a separate lineage, distinct from mainstream narratives.

What Are Their Needs?

While acknowledging Christ as a divine figure, Yazidis prioritize angelic devotion. Opportunities to encounter authentic Christian witness and participate in socio-economic development are critical needs. Access to education, particularly English language instruction, can empower Yazidi youth and enhance community advancement. They need knowledge on the understanding of who Jesus is and what it means to have a Savior.

Prayer Points

Pray for the illumination of Yazidi hearts to the truth of Christ's message.
Pray for compassionate outreach to Yazidi communities, both in their homelands and diaspora.
Pray for spiritual openness among Yazidis to receive Christ as the true King of kings.
Pray for acceptance and understanding within Yazidi society for those who embrace Jesus.

Scripture Prayers for the Yazidi in Ukraine.

References

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yazidi
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-59474616