Sema
By Shamo Qasim Dinany
Recent research suggests that the name “Ezidi” comes from the word “Êzî,” meaning the Creator or God (Xwedê). Accordingly, Ezidis are understood as those who follow the righteous path and worship one God.
Ezidism is an ancient and independent religion that did not derive from any other faith. It originated in Mesopotamia and promotes love, peace, and respect for all religions through its sacred texts and rituals. The Lalish Temple is the holiest site in Ezidism and holds deep spiritual significance.
The survival of Ezidism is closely tied to its rich spiritual heritage and mythology, especially its religious festivals. Ancient Mesopotamian societies, particularly the Sumerians, celebrated the agricultural cycle with major festivals marking the beginning and end of the farming year. These evolved into important religious events such as Zagmuk (the first creation), Akitu (the Babylonian and Assyrian New Year), (Ezidi New Year), and Newroz among the Medes.
April (Nisan) is considered sacred in Ezidism and symbolizes renewal and rebirth. Historically, Sumerian New Year celebrations lasted 12 days. March 21 marks Newroz, the Kurdish New Year, while the first Wednesday following it leads into the Ezidi New Year cycle. The first Wednesday of April (according to the Eastern calendar, which is 13 days behind the Gregorian calendar) is celebrated as Sersal.
This festival is one of the oldest and most meaningful in Ezidism and is often referred to as the “Feast of Creation.” According to Ezidi belief, creation began when the White Pearl burst by divine command, forming the four elements: earth, water, air, and fire. This symbolism is reflected in the tradition of boiling, cooling, and coloring eggs during the celebration.
The Ezidi New Year, or “Ser Sal” also symbolizes the beginning of life, when the soul entered the body of Adam and blood flowed through him for the first time. It is associated with Tawûsê Melek, who is believed to have descended to Earth in ancient times. The festival represents the renewal of nature, the blooming of flowers, and the arrival of spring.
The holiday follows the spring equinox, when day and night are equal, and marks the beginning of the year in Ezidi, Sumerian, and Babylonian traditions. Seasonal celebrations known as Tawaf take place in Ezidi villages after the holiday, symbolizing new beginnings.
Main Rituals and Traditions
Celebrations begin on Tuesday evening, when families dye eggs, symbolizing the Earth and the colors of spring. A special pastry called “Sawuk” is prepared and shared with neighbors.
At Lalish, religious ceremonies are held with the participation of Baba Sheikh and other religious figures, accompanied by traditional music. A total of 365 candles are lit, representing the days of the year and announcing the arrival of the new year.
On Wednesday morning, people collect red anemone flowers and place them with colored eggshells and herbs above their doorways using clay or dough, symbolizing the renewal of life. Families visit each other, and women visit the graves of their relatives.
Farmers take colored eggs to their fields, eat them there, and scatter the shells as a symbol of blessing and fertility.
Guests are offered sweets and colored eggs. One of the most popular traditions is the egg-cracking game, where participants strike eggs together; the unbroken egg wins.
Other rituals include visiting cemeteries, offering sacrifices, and pastoral customs such as breaking the shepherd’s staff (Gopal) and distributing its pieces for blessings, as well as special milking rituals known as “Stikosh.”
Marriage is not allowed during April, as it is considered the “bride of the year,” too sacred to share with another bride. Plowing the land is also avoided to protect nature and plant life.
In recognition of the importance of this festival and respect for religious diversity, the Kurdistan Regional Government has declared the first Wednesday of April (according to the Eastern calendar) an official public holiday throughout the Kurdistan Region.