Wafayi

Wafayi, born Abdurrehim in Mahabad in 1844, was a prominent Kurdish poet of the 19th century. He completed his religious studies in Mahabad and served as a cleric and teacher. In 1900, he moved to Sulaimaniya and later traveled to Mecca three times. His final pilgrimage in 1902 led to his illness and death in Medina. Wafayi's poetry followed classical rhyme and rhythm, focusing on themes of love and nature, and occasionally incorporating Sufi elements. He was influential in spreading the Sulaimaniya sorani school of poetry to the Mukriyan region and western Iran. He was also a disciple of Sheikh Ubeydullah, for whom he wrote several poems.