Yazidis are an ethnoreligious group indigenous to Iraq who believe that their religion is derived from angels descended from heaven. They have a strict code of conduct governing sexual behavior which includes both religious obligations and communal expectations. This code must be followed to ensure spiritual purity and community unity while still allowing for individual erotic freedom within certain parameters.
The Yazidi faith emphasizes the importance of chastity before marriage and fidelity within it. Marriage is considered a sacred union between two individuals that should last until death. Premarital sex is forbidden and adultery carries severe consequences such as excommunication or even death. Sexual relations should be limited to one's spouse, but may also include other family members if they share the same bloodline. Same-sex activity is strictly prohibited.
Within marriage, however, there is more flexibility. Yazidis can enjoy different types of intimacy ranging from traditional missionary position to more unconventional acts like mutually masturbating each other with food items. Oral and anal sex are discouraged, but not expressly forbidden. Various objects such as leather straps and feathers may also be used in intimate moments.
Outside of marriage, sexual relationships are governed by social norms rather than religious teachings. Yazidis believe in the concept of "halala", where a woman who has committed adultery is required to marry another man before returning to her first husband. The new husband is expected to divorce her after consummating their relationship once so that she becomes eligible again for her original partner. This practice is controversial and some scholars argue that it violates women's rights.
Despite these strict guidelines, Yazidis recognize that everyone has personal needs and desires when it comes to intimacy. They do not condemn people who break the rules, but instead encourage them to seek forgiveness through confession and atonement. As long as individuals remain within the community, they will continue to receive support and acceptance regardless of their past mistakes.
Yazidi sexual ethics strike a balance between religious obligation, communal expectation, and personal erotic freedom. While there are strict boundaries in place, there is still room for individual expression within those bounds. This helps ensure spiritual purity while allowing for healthy relationships that benefit both partners.
How do Yazidi sexual ethics mediate between religious obligation, communal expectation, and personal erotic freedom?
Yazidis are an indigenous community living in northern Iraq who have their own religion, culture, and traditions. They believe that God created seven angels who were sent down to earth to create life on this planet. The oldest of these is Tawsi Melek (the Peacock Angel), whose name translates as "Lord of Lords" or "Lord of Kings.