Yazidi Shrine Reconstruction Eight Years After ISIS Genocide

On August 3, 2022, the eighth anniversary of the Yazidi genocide by ISIS in 2014 was commemorated. The Islamic State destroyed 68 religious and archaeological sites in the Mosul area, Sinjar, and surrounding villages in Iraq, accusing Yazidis of being "devil worshippers." Since 2017, the Yazidi community has been rebuilding their sacred temples, often at their own expense due to lack of government financial support. Yazidi shrines are dedicated to a Khas (saint figure) and feature conical domes with hilel (metal spheres) and colorful Pari flags purified with holy water from Kaniya Sipî in Lalish. Each shrine has a Micêwir (custodian) from one of the three Yazidi castes (Sheikh, Pir, Mirid) who lights çira (oil lamps) and blesses the Pari cloths tied with knots representing wishes or obstacles. Rituals include praying toward the sun, circumambulating the temple, and removing sandals. Shrines also serve as social gathering spaces for community events, problem-solving, and dances to traditional music. The Mosul Dam construction in the 1980s flooded many archaeological sites, including Yazidi shrines, though some were relocated. Despite these challenges, the community remains committed to preserving their cultural heritage and identity.