Devil Worship: The Sacred Books and Traditions of the Yezidiz

Häftad bok. Kessinger Publishing. 222 sidor.

Nära nyskick. This is an excellent examination of a little known and widely misunderstood religion. Part I. contains their two sacred texts : The Al-Jilwah -The Revelation and the Mashaf Resh - The Black Book. Also contained in part I. is -The Poem in Praise of Sheikh "Adi; The Yezidis' Principal Prayer;
a description of the 7 classes of Yezidis and their articles of faith. An Appendix and Notes for part I. is also provided.

Part II contains the theorized origins of the group; the essential elements of their religion; a description of their sacraments and religious observances along with their customs. It ends with a history of their persecution and a list of their existing tribes. These last two parts are out of date as this book was originally published in 1919, therefore any subsequent history of these people beyond this date needs to be found elsewhere.

It is incredible that the two religious texts made it out to the wider world considering how insulated and secretive the group is - constant reference is made in their text to "those who are without" (outsiders) and it is evinced that no trust of any kind is to be put into them. While these people are maligned as "devil-worshipers", one must read their texts to understand their beliefs and mindset before jumping to conclusions. The phrase "devil-worshippers" is unfortunately used in the title and in the book itself and I believe this to be a perpetuation of the old stereotype, but I must take into consideration that it was written in 1919. In a sense I suppose this accusation is true - but as the book mentions - one groups gods maybe another groups devils, and it is not a clear cut case of "devil-worship". I had this book as a web file, but decided to purchase an actual copy after having suggested it to someone with similar interests in religions. The review about this book having a "bad aura" shouldn't be paid much attention to. If you are interested in Gnosticism, obscure religions or persecuted groups purchase this book.