Do Ezidis celebrate ‘Newroz’?

Newroz, a time-honored tradition signifying “New Day,” holds profound cultural and historical significance for millions of individuals across the globe. Originating as the New Year’s Eve celebration for various Indo-Iranian communities, Newroz serves as a testament to the rich tapestry of human heritage and the enduring spirit of renewal. However, within the intricate fabric of the Ezidi religion ‘Sharfadin’, a distinctive religious and ethnic minority, the observance of Newroz unveils layers of complexity, touching upon questions of identity, tradition, and political manipulation.

Sharfadin, with its unique blend of cultural practices and spiritual beliefs, stands as a testament to the resilience of a marginalized people. Within the Ezidi faith, the concept of New Year transcends mere temporal observance, intertwining secular and religious dimensions. Unlike the widespread celebration of Newroz among neighboring communities, Ezidis mark their New Year on “Çarşema serê nîsanê,” the first Wednesday in April according to their calendar (the first Wednesday after the 13th of April according to the Gregorian calendar). This divergence underscores the distinctiveness of Ezidi religious observance, rooted in ancient traditions and myths that predate the modern incarnation of Newroz.

Yet, amidst the celebration and reflection, a shadow looms over the Newroz festivities for Ezidis—a shadow cast by political factions seeking to exploit cultural symbols for their own agendas. The manipulation of religious narratives and historical truths serves as a potent tool in the arsenal of those advocating for Kurdish independence and differentiation from Islam. Fabricated texts such as “Qewlê Zerdeşt,” “Qewlê Pîrê Sîba,” and “Qewlê Newroz” have emerged in recent decades, falsely attributing religious significance to figures and beliefs alien to the Ezidi religion Sharfadin. Zarathustra and Zoroastrianism, once distant echoes in Ezidi mythology, are forcibly integrated into the narrative, aligning conveniently with the Newroz Festival.

The implications of this manipulation extend far beyond the realm of religious discourse, permeating the collective consciousness of Ezidi youth. Faced with a distorted portrayal of their heritage, many Ezidis find themselves grappling with questions of identity and belonging. The insidious spread of misinformation threatens to erode the very foundations of Ezidi culture, obscuring the true essence of their faith and history.

As we stand on the threshold of another Newroz celebration, it is imperative to confront these challenges head-on, reaffirming the integrity of Ezidi identity and heritage. By reclaiming the narrative from the clutches of political opportunism, Ezidis can build a path towards a future grounded in truth and unity. Let us not allow the shadows of manipulation to obscure the light of tradition and resilience that illuminates the spirit of Newroz. In extending our New Year wishes to all, Ezidi or non-Ezidi, let us embody the spirit of solidarity and authenticity, embracing the richness of diversity that defines us as human beings.

Original article by Sargis Agojan on Stelle für Jesidische Angelegenheiten e.V.

Ezidi Times wishes all the people who celebrate, a Happy Newroz!

Wishing unity, reflection, and renewal to all celebrating this joyous occasion. We wish you all a joyous and prosperous year ahead for all Newroz celebrants worldwide!