AHLI HAQQ

(People of the Truth or Spirit)

   This is an ancient indigenous Kurdish religion that still persists in Iraqi and Iranian Kurdistan, where with some exceptions it corresponds with Gurani-speaking Kurds. It is also called Kakai, Yarsanism, Aliul-lahi, or Alli-Ilahi (those who deify Ali). It shares many tenets with the Alevis and Yezidis. Its usage of religious dissimulation (taqiya, similar to that practiced by the Shiites) to confuse opponents and thus survive probably helps identify it with more mainstream Shiism. The main Ahl-i Haqq shrine at Baba Yadigar is also venerated by Shiite Kurds.

   See also Ghulat.