![]() | This article possibly contains original research. (August 2024) |
![]() Flag used by the Lezgin people | |
![]() | |
Total population | |
---|---|
<1 million[1] | |
Regions with significant populations | |
![]() | 488,608[2] |
![]() | 167,570[3] |
Languages | |
Lezgin | |
Religion | |
Sunni Islam, minority Shia Islam[4][5][6] | |
Related ethnic groups | |
Other Northeast Caucasian peoples, especially Aghuls, Tsakhurs, Tabasarans, Udis, and Rutuls |
Lezgins (Lezgian: Лезгияр[7] IPA: lezgijar) are a Northeast Caucasian ethnic group native predominantly to southern Dagestan, a republic of Russia, and northeastern Azerbaijan, and speak the Lezgin language. Their social structure is firmly based on equality and deference to individuality. Lezgin society is structured around djamaat (Lezgian: жамаат- unions of clans) and has traditionally been egalitarian and organised around many autonomous local clans, called syhils (сихилар).
The land of the Lezgins has been subject to multiple invaders throughout history. Its isolated terrain and the strategic value outsiders have placed on the areas settled by Lezgins has contributed much to the Lezgin community ethos and helped shape its national character. Due to constant attacks from the invaders, the Lezgins have developed a national code of honor and conduct, Lezgiwal, passed down from generation to generation by parents and society. It implies moral and ethical behaviour, generosity and the will to safeguard the honor of women.
Although the Lezgin are Sunni Muslims, there is a strong Shiite minority.
Given the strong Azerbaijani influence on them, however, there is a sizable Shiite minority among the Lezgins
The Lezgins are Muslims; the great majority are Sunni of the Shafi'i rite, with small numbers of Lezgins living near or inside Azerbaijan being Shiite.