Melayê Cizîrî

Quick Facts

• Region: Cizre, Turkey
• Born: c. 1570, Cizre
• Died: c. 1640, Cizre
• Known for: Classical Kurdish poetry in Kurmanji

Overview

Melayê Cizîrî was a Kurdish poet and Sufi mystic whose diwan is among the most important works of classical Kurdish literature. His poetry blends metaphysics, love, and spiritual longing.

He is considered a foundational figure for Kurmanji poetic tradition.

Life and Work

Cizîrî composed a diwan that drew from Sufi philosophy and classical literary forms. His work circulated widely and influenced generations of Kurdish poets.

Legacy

He remains a central name in Kurdish classical literature and Sufi poetic tradition.