Ehl-î Heq/en
Ehl-î Heq belief is a distinctive religious and cultural tradition that developed especially among Goranî Kurds in Eastern Kurdistan. This belief system is considered a continuation of early forms of belief that emerged in Mesopotamia.
Relationship between belief and music
In the Ehl-î Heq belief, mûzîk holds a central and sacred place. Gatherings and religious rites are carried out in a musical dîwan setting. In this system of belief, religious leaders are at the same time stiranbêj and musicians. The secrets and teachings of the faith are transmitted through music.
Cultural proximities
The Ehl-î Heq belief shows many similarities with:
There are marked parallels among musical motifs and rituals.
In all three of these belief systems, agir (fire) is an important and guiding symbol. For example, when Ehl-î Heq disciples enter a state of ecstasy during semah-like rituals, they may walk barefoot on fire. This points to the sacredness of fire.
In Ehl-î Heq belief, music is not only a means of expression, but also the bearer of sacred knowledge.