جستاري در صابئان

An Inquiry on Sabeis

The present paper is a review of history and beliefs of the followers of one of the old religions, called "Sabeis" living in Iran and Iraq since long ago. The writer is seeking to get familiarized with their real religious beliefs and rituals. In this study, some important information is obtained through a theoretical approach and by using the scanty sources belonging to them. The findings of this research are as follows: Sabeis are divided into two groups called Harranis and Mandaies. The former live in north Iraq and the latter are found mostly in Khuzestan province; both have some rituals in common as well as some specific to each. Although Mandaies trace their history back to Adam, there are many ambiguities concerning their religion due to lack of proselytizing. They have their own handwriting, language and scripture. Besides, it should be acknowledged that there is little information on their condition in the advent of Islam.