Islam is the religion of most people in Iraq. Shia and Sunni Muslims share core foundations of Islam while differing in some histories, authorities, rituals, and community traditions. Iraq contains major Islamic centers and sacred places. Najaf and Karbala are especially important in Shia Islam, while many Sunni mosques, schools, shrines, and historic centers are found across the country. Christian communities in Iraq include several churches and traditions, many using Arabic, Syriac, or other liturgical languages. Their history in the region reaches back many centuries. Yazidis have a distinct religion and community identity centered historically in northern Iraq. Mandaeans follow a separate ancient religious tradition in which flowing water has special ritual importance. Other religious and belief identities have also formed part of Iraq's social history. Community size, location, public visibility, and security have changed through migration, persecution, and displacement. Religious life can include daily prayer, weekly worship, fasting, pilgrimage, charity, sacred meals, processions, study, and family ceremonies. The form of each practice depends on the religion, branch, locality, and individual. Religious calendars affect visits, food, working patterns, traffic, and public behavior. Ramadan, Eid celebrations, Ashura, Arbaeen, Christmas, Easter, and community-specific holy days have different meanings and observances. Religion is personal as well as public. Some Iraqis are highly observant, others are less observant or secular, and no person's beliefs should be guessed from a name, clothing, hometown, or community label.
Religion in Iraq
Religion in Iraq shapes worship, holidays, family customs, ethics, architecture, and community life. Most Iraqis are Muslim, including Shia and Sunni communities, while Christians, Yazidis, Mandaeans, and other religious groups have deep roots in Iraq. Belief and practice still vary greatly between individuals.
Tip
Ask what conduct is expected before entering a mosque, church, shrine, temple, or sacred gathering in Iraq. Dress respectfully, keep noise low, and follow instructions about shoes, seating, food, and photography. Never ask one person to defend an entire religion or sect.