The Fasting and Feast of the Yazidis: Faith, Identity, and Social Solidarity

Fasting is one of the most prominent religious rites in the Yazidi faith. It embodies deep spiritual commitment, moral discipline, patience, and a strong sense of social solidarity. Yazidis live primarily in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq—especially in Shingal (Sinjar) and Sheikhan—with communities also in parts of Syria and Turkey and a wide-ranging diaspora around the world.

Among the most sacred observances is the Fast of Ezi, observed from the age of fourteen and above. Those fasting abstain from food and drink from sunrise to sunset. The fast also emphasizes righteous conduct: avoiding harm to others, increasing charitable deeds, and giving alms—clear expressions of the fast’s humanitarian and social dimensions.

This year, the fast began on Tuesday and continued through Thursday. Friday is the feast day and an official holiday for Yazidis in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq and in many diaspora communities. Recognition of this occasion reflects respect for religious diversity and affirms the Yazidis’ place as an integral part of the Kurdish social fabric.

On Friday morning, Yazidis exchange congratulations and visit one another, strengthening bonds of social cohesion. Visiting cemeteries is an essential practice: families pray for their deceased and offer charity on their behalf, reflecting loyalty and respect for the departed.

Those who are able offer sacrificial animals, distributing the meat to relatives, the poor, and the needy. This reinforces a culture of generosity and mutual support that characterizes Yazidi society.

In the afternoon, Yazidi areas fill with joy and celebration. Extended visits and popular festivities are held, along with social and cultural events featuring music and Yazidi and Kurdish folkloric dances—civilized expressions of commitment to cultural and religious identity.

Over the past two decades, the feast has gained broader official visibility. Yazidis receive greetings and visits from government and party officials, as well as messages of solidarity from public figures. Among the foremost well-wishers is the Kurdish leader Kak Masoud Barzani, who annually sends messages affirming his support for the Yazidis and their just cause.

On this blessed occasion, Yazidis pray for goodness, blessing, and peace; for the return of displaced people from camps to their homeland in Shingal; for reconstruction; and for security and stability—foundations of a dignified and safe life for this historic community.

The fasting and feast of the Yazidis together convey a religious and humanitarian message of steadfastness, faith, and coexistence. They express a living will to preserve identity and to build a future grounded in peace, dignity, and justice.

Zedo Baedri (A Yazidi writer lives in the Kurdistan Region). The article was in Arabic published on Basnews Website. Translation by KDP Foreign Relations.)