Description
Book SynopsisThis book highlights the complicated diversity of Syriaâs ethnic and religious fragmentation on the basis of the identity building process among the Yezidis, the lowest in the countryâs socio-economic and political hierarchy.
Trade ReviewThis important and timely work fills a lacuna that has long been felt by students of Yezidism and others. It offers a thorough, scholarly, and much-needed account of the current position of the Yezidis in Syria, their religion, and historical background. The book makes a major contribution to Yezidi studies. -- Philip G. Kreyenbroek, Georg-August University
There is still great need for research, especially on aspects of Yezidism as practiced by different local communities. Maisel’s book focuses on identity issues among the Yezidis in Syria, a double minority group which constructed two distinct local identities in past decades, but is now moving towards a unified one. Thus this book is very welcome since it contributes to our knowledge of the current situation of the Yezidi community in Syria. -- Khanna Omarkhali, Georg-August University, Göttingen
Table of ContentsNote on Transliteration Preface Chapter 1. Introduction Chapter 2. Minorities in Syria: Competing Hierarchies Chapter 3. Demystifying the Yezidis: A Word about the Sources Chapter 4. Religious Beliefs and Social Organization Chapter 5. Historical Developments Chapter 6. Yezidis in the New Syria Chapter 7. Conclusion: Future Challenges Appendix
