Victims of Islamic Genocide: Long-Persecuted Yazidis Open World's Largest Temple in Armenia

💭 In 2018, Armenia made news by declaring the attack on the Yazidis of Sinjar as a genocide. Armenia became one of the first countries in the world to establish a commemoration day for the Yezidi Genocide.

Armenians are a community who have seen genocide themselves.
Given Armenia’s tragic history involving the genocide of 1.5 million Armenians by the Ottoman Turkish Empire, and the presence of a Yezidi community in Armenia, it is not surprising that Armenia would designate a day to commemorate the Yezidi tragedy. People who suffer genocides recognize each other’s pain. Commemoration of genocides is also a way of promoting justice.

The world's largest Yazidi Temple

Quba Mêrê Dîwanê, is located in the village of Aknalich, about 35 kilometers west of Yerevan, Armenia. Built to provide a central place of worship for Armenia's Yazidi community, this gleaming, seven-domed temple was completed in 2019 and serves as a spiritual and cultural hub for Yazidis worldwide.

Key Features of the Temple

Symbolism: The temple features a central 25-meter-high dome and seven smaller surrounding spires, symbolizing the cosmic structure and holy angels of the Yazidi faith.

Statue of Malaq Tawus: A statue of Malaq Tawus, the central sacred figure of Yazidism (also known as the Peacock Angel), is located in the temple's courtyard.

Museum and Seminary: In addition to being a place of worship, the temple complex includes a museum and a seminary dedicated to teaching Yazidi history and traditions.

Architectural Elements: The temple's interior is circular, adorned with symbolic Yazidi designs, patterns, and peacock motifs.

Significance for the Yazidi Community

Safe Haven: The construction of the temple is seen as a testament to Armenia's role as a safe haven for the Yazidi community, who have historically faced persecution and genocide.

Spiritual Hub: Quba Mêrê Dîwanê offers a much-needed central location for Yazidi worship, religious ceremonies, and festivals, providing a place for spiritual and cultural practice.