Page:Devil Worship.djvu/81

 SEVEN CLASSES OF YEZIDIS

They are divided into seven classes, and each class has functions peculiar to itself that cannot be discharged by any of the other classes. They are :. Seih. He is the servant of the tomb, and a descendant of Imam Hasan al-Basri. No one can give a legal decision or sign any document except the seih who is the servant of Seih 'Adi's tomb. He has a sign by which he is distinguished from others. The sign is a belt which he puts on his body, and net-like gloves, which resemble the halters of camels. If he goes among his people, they bow down and pay him their respects. The seihs sell a place in paradise to anyone who wishes to pay money. . Emir. The emirship specifically belongs to the descendants of Yezid. They have a genealogical tree, preserved from their fathers and forefathers, which goes up to Yezid himself. The emirs have charge of the temporal and governmental affairs, and have the right to say, "Do this and do not that." . Kawwal. He has charge of tambourines and flutes and religious hymns. . Pir. To him appertain the conduct of fasts, the breaking of fasts, and hair-dressing. . Kochak. To him appertain the duties of religious