Religious Tolerance in Kurdistan [1]

This is the Kurdistan Region; it comprises approximately 17% of Iraq. In this region, Muslims, Christians, Jews, Kakayis, Zoroastrians, Yazidis, and Sabian-Mandaeans peacefully coexist. [2] Although the Kurdistan region population are predominantly Muslim, there have always been other religions’ adherents scattered across the region; peaceful coexistence of different religions is enshrined in the region's identity within the Middle East. [3] Kurdistan region is like a museum where all religions are freely observed. [4] Traces of peaceful coexistence and strong social bond in Kurdistan is imprinted in its architecture and archaeological records. [5] Strong social relations exist, visiting each other, participating in each other’s events. No provocations, no hate from any side, on the contrary, we share each other’s sorrowful and joyous occasions; we are there for each other. [6] Islam encourages us to live together in harmony, especially with people of the same country and pursue common interests. History has proven that if we do not accept each other, we will destroy our homes and perish. [7] Aside from social interactions, within the local administrations, there are people of all religious backgrounds, especially the minorities. Even during King Mahmoud's reign in the early twentieth century, the finance minister was a Christian man known as Karem Alaka, whose name is still held in high regard today by everyone for his generosity and bravery. [8] Peaceful coexistence is like the lungs, each person has two lungs if one of them dysfunctions the breathing will be difficult. Peaceful coexistence is a collective work. [9] This is a beautiful gesture that ensures that the indigenous inhabitants are protected. [10] This is the grand mosque of Sulaymaniyah, one of the hundreds of mosques in the Kurdistan Region where Muslims gather to pray and attend the Friday ceremony. [11] Here, like most other mosques, peaceful coexistence is encouraged [12] The truth is, Islam does not forbid us from respecting other religions. [13] As we reflect on our faith deeply, our ability to accept each other is increased. Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) once stood up during the procession of a Jewish funeral to respect the dead. "But he was a Jew, " they said to the prophet. To which the prophet replied: "was he not a human? ". Islam does not violate the rights of others. [14] The Kakayes view themselves as the followers of Yarsan, which is an ancient Zagros area religion; those who practice it are spread across Kurdistan. [15] According to our beliefs, all religions are sacred; Kakayes have a duty of respecting all religions. [16] The current coexistence is inherited from the previous generation, must be kept alive and further strengthened. [17] As Christians, we believe in progress and happiness for all human beings. We believe in treating one another based on human values instead of religious affiliations. Everyone has the right to life and freedom. [18] The notion of coexistence was one of the main reasons that the Vatican Pope thanked the people of Kurdistan times for their humanitarian support and acceptance of each other regardless of religious affiliations. [19] Some Jews believe Jews are among the oldest inhabitants in this region. In places such as Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, Duhok, Halabja, Koya, Penjwen, and Qaradagh, Jews have had their own neighbourhoods and quarters, some of the places still use the Jewish names. [20] Everyone should be able to live freely and believe what they want to believe. The message of coexistence is a global phenomenon. Ultimately, only God can judge us for our good deeds and sins. [21] The home of the Yazidis is here, the Yazidi community bore the brunt of Daesh violence and injustice. There are thousands of families whose girls and women fell victims to Daesh. [22] Yazidis recognise that there are different nations, religions, and languages; they all deserve respect. [23] The Yazidi women take comfort in spending Fridays in the temples; the livelihood in and around Lalesh gives them hope and slowly fades away memories of darker times. [24] Yazidis have endured many atrocities, but today they welcome with a big heart and open eyes all people and respect them. The Yazidis are resilient, carrying the pain and sufferings in their hearts, yet still smile on the outside. There are still thousands of Yazidis missing, many have had their houses destroyed, barely have enough to survive, yet their generosity knows no bounds, open their doors to all guests. [25] God has created this world with all the gifts it has to offer for humans to enjoy, live a happy life, and not wage wars, or make each other suffer. [26] Zoroastrian believers consider themselves followers of the oldest Abrahamic religion on Earth, and their beliefs are based on good thoughts, good speech, and good deeds; all of which are the reason for peaceful coexistence with others. [27] This coexistence is a rare find in the Middle East, where eight religions have representatives at the Kurdistan Regional Government Ministry of Endowment and Religious Affairs. According to the Kurdistan region Law No. 5 of 2015, all religions have the right to representations within the ministry, as well as the freedom to practice their religion, establish places of worship, and have their traditions, histories and monuments protected. [28] The Zoroastrians, Kakayes, and Sabian-Mandaeans are considered the religious minorities, yet equally respected within the Kurdistan region. [29] All our Abrahamic books emphasise love and respect for each other, and non-aggression. Mandaean religion particularly emphasises peaceful coexistence. [30] Yes to peaceful coexistence and acceptance of one another. [31] The peaceful coexistence of religious components in the Kurdistan region is a shining example in the Middle East; it should be replicated elsewhere. Religious debates and joint activities to encourage peaceful coexistence regularly take place; the notion of peaceful coexistence continues to develop and minimise the effects of radicalisation and extremism. [32]