Denho Özmen

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Mhalmies

This book is more than history; it is a personal search to take back a story long silenced or told by outsiders. Writing as both a researcher and a member of the Mhallami (Mhalmoye), Denho Özmen brings careful research together with lived experience.
The Mhallami story moves from ancient Mesopotamian worship of Shamash, through the rise of Christianity in the 300s, to a
gradual move toward Islam between the 600s and 1700s. Özmen shows that these changes were not a loss of identity but rather ways of surviving while maintaining strong links to Assyrian roots.
Instead of focusing only on rulers and wars, the book looks at everyday life: the Shoulder Dance (Raqdho da katfotho),
traditional songs, and visits to local holy places (ziyarat). These traditions keep the community´s voice alive and push back - quietly but clearly - against outside pressure to make them blend into other groups.
In the shadow of the Sayfo (the 1915 genocide) and continuing migration, this book calls for protecting a fragile heritage.
Dedicated to the author´s son, Enki, it invites new generations - from Södertälje to Sydney - to see their place in this story and remember that history is not only what happens to a people; it is
also what a people choose to shape.

"Careful scholarship - and courageous work - rooted in care for community."
- Andreas Önver Cetrez, Professor, Uppsala University