The scientist-encyclopedist Peter Simon Pallas, who at the end of the 18th century explored the southern provinces of Russia, wrote that the main feature of the Kabardian ethnos is politeness taken to the extreme. Honoring elders, respect for a woman, attention to a guest - for a Kabardian, all this is not just observing etiquette. Being the most numerous branch of the single people of the Circassians, the Kabardians are guided in everyday life by the ancient moral and ethical code of Adyghe Khabze.
The family foundations of the Kabardians: the power of the elder is equal to the power of God, the wife is created by the husband, and the husband is created by the wife:
Family for Kabardians is the most important thing. It is in it that the traditions and customs of the Kabardians are revered sacredly and inviolably. Respect for elders is one of the main commandments of the Adyghe. Not a single young man will allow himself not to show the proper signs of respect to the old people. Even Kabardian table traditions are predominantly conditioned by family hierarchy.
Equally great is the reverence among the people for marriage bonds. And although a Muslim husband has the right to divorce even without explaining the reason, according to the Kabardians, you can get married only once, otherwise the hierarchy of family values \u200b\u200bis violated. One of the wisdom of the people says: "The first wife is your wife, the second wife you are the wife."
Many rituals are associated among Kabardians with the birth of children. Among them are the custom of “tying in a cradle”, competitions on the occasion of the birth of a son, and the festival of Leuteuwe, dedicated to the first steps.
Adyghe guest sits in the fortress
The traditions of the Kabardians regarding hospitality provide everyone who comes to the threshold with absolute protection. Customs provided for significant fines, measured in dozens of heads of cattle, for insulting a guest or inflicting grievous harm on him.
The Kabardian will accept even the worst enemy with all honors. The most elegant and expensively furnished room in a Kabardian house is the Kunatskaya room, lavishly decorated with carpets, crockery, and weapons. Extremely moderate in food, Kabardians will put everything that is in the house on the table for a guest. The most honored guest sat at the table alone, the owner could join the meal only after lengthy persuasion. Together they started eating only absolutely equal in position.
There is no superfluous brother: Kabardian traditions of atalism
A well-known Caucasian custom - atalism, or the adoption of boys into a family - was also common among the Kabardians. But although it was customary to call a child taken for upbringing a son, one should not confuse atalism and adoption. Having reached the age of majority, the pupil returned to his native land, provided with a horse, clothes and weapons. Relatives of the young man in response generously endowed the atalyk. Sometimes girls were also transferred to the upbringing of the atalyks. And despite the fact that after the age of majority they again lived in the parental home, the dowry paid by the groom was transferred not to the father, but to the atalyk.
What a small, what a big wedding is one and the same: the traditions of Kabardian weddings
Kabardian weddings have always been distinguished by the observance of many rituals, traditions prescribed not to rush: often more than one year could pass between the choice of a bride and the celebration of marriage. The following stages preceded the wedding ceremony:
- matchmaking;
– coordination of the amount of kalym;
- bride and betrothal;
- payment of a share of kalym;
- the ceremony of bringing the bride out of her home;
- "sheltering" of the bride and groom in other people's (different) houses;
- moving of the bride to the house of the future husband;
- a rite of reconciliation between the groom and his family.
The wedding celebration itself lasted, as a rule, several days. The celebrations were continued by numerous ceremonies of acquaintance with newfound relatives.
To whom they will make a cradle, that will not pass the coffin
It is customary to bury the dead Kabardians in accordance with Muslim rites. Confident in the existence of an afterlife, the Circassians always made sure that in the next world a loved one had everything he might need: for this purpose, the monuments were decorated with images of the things necessary for the deceased. Commemoration and collective reading of the Koran were necessarily organized. As if assuring loved ones of their readiness to always take them back, for a whole year the Kabardians kept the clothes of deceased relatives, hanging them inside out. One of the ancient funeral customs of the Kabardians is to hold a kind of feast with prize races and shooting competitions on the anniversary of death.
Traditions and customs of the Balkars Friday, 23 July 2012 15:10 Written by Administrator The family traditions of the Balkars were regulated by norms of behavior developed over the centuries. The woman obeyed the man and implicitly obeyed his will. There were also various restrictions in family life: separate meals for men and women, the duty of women to serve men standing while eating. Husband and wife were not supposed to be in the same room with strangers, to call each other husband and wife or by name. The female half of the house was absolutely forbidden for strangers. At the same time, in Balkaria it is impossible to see that a man is riding and a woman is walking next to him, or a woman is walking with a heavy burden, and a man is empty-handed. Special strictness was emphasized in the relationship between parents and children. Between grandfathers and grandchildren, on the contrary, caresses and joint games in the presence of outsiders were allowed. The Balkars had a custom according to which an extinguished fire could not be lit again with the help of a neighbor's fire. This is where the custom came from - not to give neighbors fire from the hearth. But each family on one particular day was allowed to pass fire to its neighbors. On the basis of the custom of hospitality, the Balkars developed kunakism, which is one of the forms of artificial kinship. To establish kunat ties, time-tested friendship was necessary, as well as the performance of a special ceremony, which consisted in the fact that the negotiators poured a drink into a bowl and drank in turn, promising each other and before God to be brothers. At the same time, they exchanged weapons and gifts, after which they became blood relatives. According to the ancient custom, to establish twinning, two people took a bowl of buza (a low-alcohol drink made from flour), adding a drop of their blood there, and drank in turn, swearing an oath of twinning. Since the beginning of the XIX century. to establish twinning, each of them touched his lips to the breast of the mother or wife of the sworn brother. If, according to the old adat (customary law), the issue of marriage was decided by the father and older relatives, then from the 19th century. the initiative often came from the groom. Matchmakers from among the most respected old men were sent to the bride's house. After the conspiracy, one of the trusted groom talked with the bride, finding out if she agreed to marry. The girl had to submit to the will of her relatives. After the agreement, the groom contributed part of the kalym (bride price) to the bride's parents in cattle, things and money. Part of the kalym was recorded for the wife in case of a divorce due to the husband's fault. The difficulty of paying the bride price was often one of the reasons for the abduction of girls. In these cases, the amount of kalym was already determined by the groom's family, but for taking the girl away ("for dishonor"), according to custom, in addition to the kalym, the groom was obliged to make valuable gifts to the bride's parents. The abduction could have been caused by other reasons, for example, the disagreement of the girl or her parents. If the bride was kidnapped and the young son-in-law visited their village for the first time after reconciliation with her relatives, the local guys dragged him to the river for a swim, and the girls took him under protection and ransomed him from the guys for a treat. The bride was dressed in a white dress, which was considered a symbol of beauty and youth. If a girl was taken from the groom's village, then she was taken to his house on foot, and only women and girls. The groom did not participate in this procession. The dowry of the Balkars included a dagger, a pistol, a gun, a belt, a horse, which were presented to the son-in-law on behalf of the father-in-law. Before leaving for the bride, all participants in the wedding procession were treated, and the groom sent gifts to her parents. Women, as well as singers, dancers, and musicians rode horses with the groom's friends. On the way, passing villages, jigits arranged horse races, target shooting, and sang a wedding song. Having overcome all the obstacles, they entered the yard of the girl's father, where the youth put up numerous obstacles to the wedding procession: the participants were dipped into a pit with water, their clothes were torn off. After the meal, the manager of the "wedding train" sent a horseman for the bride, who was in the room surrounded by her friends. He was supposed to touch the bride's sleeve, and the "guards" surrounding her tried to prevent this. One of the oldest was the rite of "getting off the pillow." Before leaving, the girls brought the bride into the bedroom, put her on a pillow and surrounded her with a living wall. The groom's friends had to redeem the bride, after which the young man brought her to the threshold, took her in his arms and put her on a cart. By this time, the banner of the bride was carried out, which the youth sought to take away from the groom's friend. If he succeeded, then he had to pay a large ransom for him. Then the person responsible for transporting the bride made gifts to the groom's parents, and the groom's trustee circled the bride three times around the hearth, in which the fire was always maintained. The messengers of the groom performed a dance around the hearth. In the Balkar wedding there were many amusing ceremonies. Such, for example, is the rite of the "bowl of the bridegroom." The bride's relatives brought the groom's friends a huge bowl, with a capacity of about a bucket, filled to the brim with beer. In order for the bowl to become slippery, it was lubricated on the outside with oil. The one who accepted the cup had to drink from it without spilling a drop. They resorted to various tricks - they smeared their hand with ash, put the bowl on the floor and drank from it, but in most cases the beer was spilled to the general laughter, and the one who spilled was fined in favor of the guests. Then the wedding procession went to the groom's house. Along the entire route of the wedding procession, young people set up barriers, demanding a ransom. The entrance to the groom's yard was accompanied by rifle shots and cheerful shouts. The bride, hidden under a muslin veil, was removed from the cart and brought into the room of the newlyweds. Access to it was limited to all relatives of the groom. For the entrance it was necessary to pay a certain fee, the amount of which depended on the degree of kinship and wealth of the relative. The wedding went on around the clock, for a week with short breaks for sleep. During the wedding, the rite of "bride's introduction into the big house" was performed. The daughter-in-law had to enter the house with her right foot and step on the lying skin of a ram or goat. As a talisman, a piece of iron or an old horseshoe was nailed to the threshold of the room. The mother-in-law smeared her daughter-in-law's lips with honey and butter, which symbolized the desire of the daughter-in-law and mother-in-law to live together and utter only kind words. On the day of entry into the house, the veil was removed from the bride and her face was shown to all the gathered women. The “opening of the face” among the Balkars was entrusted to one of the close friends of the husband, who threw off the coverlet with a dagger or whip handle. During the wedding, the groom was in the family of his friend or relative, where dances and treats were also arranged. After the introduction of the bride into the house, the ceremony of "returning the groom" took place. A few days later, the young wife could clean the house and feed the cattle. The son-in-law was tested (chopped wood, repaired something) in the house of his wife's parents. A few days after the main wedding ceremonies, the first walk on water was organized for the young wife. She sewed a shirt for this event, which she gave to the first person she met on the way to the river. The young woman was accompanied by older daughters-in-law, neighbors and an accordion player. At the same time, she was prevented in every possible way from getting water. The Balkar birth ceremony was very peculiar. The expectant mother fulfilled various prohibitions: she was not allowed to go to mourning the dead, kill insects and birds, kindle a fire and sit on household utensils. It was forbidden to look at the fish and the rabbit, let alone eat them. The appearance of a new person was recognized by the flag hung. According to custom, the grandfather gave a gift to the messenger who announced the birth of his grandson. Father was congratulated by pulling his ear. Only after the birth of a child did the daughter-in-law become a full member of the family and clan, because, according to custom, a husband could divorce a barren wife. After seven days after birth, the baby was swaddled in the cradle and named. On this day, they gathered guests, arranged refreshments, presented gifts to mother and child, and mothers-in-law showed the child for the first time. The young mother swaddled the child in a large silk scarf and handed it over to the midwife. Then this handkerchief was given to the midwife as a gift. A cat was laid in a bed prepared for a child, pretending to be swaddled. This game was supposed to promote a good and restful sleep. They celebrated the first step of the child and the loss of the first milk tooth. To the fallen tooth the child added a piece of charcoal and salt and, having tied it all up in a rag, standing with his back to the house, threw it onto the thatched roof. If the bundle did not fall back, that was a good omen. The Balkarians attached special importance to the first haircut of a child. Shaving the child's head was trusted to a man known for his decency and kindness, who was one of the closest friends of the family. Hair was not thrown away, but kept, as they believed that they had magical powers.
Performed by a student of the I5M group
Nebelova.A.V.
The Republic of Kabardino-Balkaria is a constituent entity of the Russian Federation and is part of the Southern Federal District. The flag of the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic is a panel consisting of 3 equal horizontal stripes: blue-blue, white and green. In the center of the cloth is a circle divided into blue and green fields, in the middle is a white image of Elbrus. Elbrus is the highest peak of the Caucasus, Russia and Europe, a symbol of the Balkars. His stylistic image is present on the national flag.
The coat of arms of the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic is an image of a golden (yellow) eagle in a scarlet (red) field of the shield; the eye of an eagle is azure (blue, cyan). On the chest of the eagle there is a small crossed shield, at the top is an image of a silver (white) mountain with two peaks in an azure (blue, light blue) field, below is a golden (yellow) shamrock with oblong leaves in a green field.
The capital of Kabardino-Balkaria is Nalchik. The city got its name from the mountain river Nalchik, which flows through its territory. Nalchik in translation from the Kabardian and Balkar languages means a horseshoe, since geographically the city is located in a semicircle of mountains resembling a horseshoe. The horseshoe became the emblem of the city. It borders on the Stavropol Territory in the north, North Ossetia and Georgia in the south, Karachay-Cherkessia in the west.
Language: The official languages of Kabardino-Balkaria are Kabardian (Kabardino-Circassian), Balkar (Karachay-Balkarian) and Russian. The Kabardino-Circassian language belongs to the Abkhaz-Adyghe group of Caucasian languages. One of the official languages of Kabardino-Balkaria and Karachay-Cherkessia.
RELIGION: By religion, Kabardians and Balkars are Sunni Muslims. In Kabardino-Balkaria, the main confessions are Muslim and Christian (Orthodox and Protestant). The oldest form of religion, both among the Kabardians and the Balkars, was paganism, with its indispensable attributes - polytheism, veneration of "sacred places", the cult of natural elements, belief in the afterlife, the cult of ancestors, etc. In the 10th century. Christianity, which came from Byzantium, is spreading here, but Christianity is largely combined with old, pagan ideas. Islam began to penetrate the territory of Kabardino-Balkaria by the 14th century. This is evidenced by the ruins of the Nizhne-Dzhulatskaya brick mosque of the XIII-XIV centuries. with the remains of a minaret and a burial crypt under the floor, the significant size of which allows us to consider it a cathedral. In the XVIII century. Islam became the dominant religion of the Kabardians. The widespread dissemination of Islam in Balkaria occurred later, in the 17th-18th centuries. Islam is layered on the remnants of paganism and Christianity. From the first half of the 19th century Islam becomes the main religion of the Balkars and Kabardians.
Balkarians and Karachays are very close in their appearance to mountainous Ossetians and northern Georgians. This circumstance should be taken into account, since the Turkic language of the Balkars and Karachays gave grounds to many researchers to consider them direct descendants of the Mongols who came to the Caucasus from the East. An analysis of the anthropological features of the Balkars and Karachays, carried out by the expedition of the Institute of Experimental Morphology of the Academy of Sciences of the Georgian SSR, studies by V.P. Alekseev and other authors showed that there are no Mongoloid elements among the representatives of the Karachay and Balkar peoples.
Architectural and archaeological monuments
On the territory of Kabardino-Balkaria, the remains of wicker dwellings and ceramics dating back to the Neolithic and Early Bronze Ages (Nalchik mounds), metal ornaments belonging to the circle of the Koban culture and the culture of the Scythian-Sarmatians were found. Many burial mounds, cemeteries, crypts of different times have been preserved (under-kurgan tomb near the city of Nalchik, 3rd millennium BC). Among the latter: the settlement of Lower Dzhulat, which existed from the beginning of AD. e. by 14th c. inclusive (the remains of a large mosque, the beginning of the 14th century, etc.), the early medieval settlement of Lygyt (near the village of Verkhniy Chegem) with a complex of defensive structures of the late Middle Ages. In the highlands, the ruins of late medieval fortress complexes have been preserved, erected in impregnable places (on slopes, ledges, mountain tops), severe and laconic in architecture: the Totur-Kala fortress and the Dzhaboevs' castle on the right bank of the river. Cherek, the fortresses of Bolat-Kala, Malkar-Kala in the Cherek gorge, the castle on Mount Kurnoyat-Bashi, the 3-tier complex of Zylgi (the so-called Borziev castle) in the Balkar gorge, etc. The fortified towers are majestic: the tower of Abay near the former village of Kunnyum , attributed to the end of the 16th - beginning of the 17th centuries; tower of the Balkarukovs in the village. Upper Chegem, (dated to the second half of the 17th century, Ak-Kala tower (17-18th centuries).
Ground stone crypts-mausoleums of the 14th-19th centuries are widespread: rectangular in plan with a high gable roof, round and multifaceted with a cone-shaped roof. The triumphal gates in the village of Ekaterinogradskaya belong to 1785 (restored in 1847 and 1962). As well as crypts (keshen) in Upper Chegem
Traditional clothing:
Traditional clothing of the North Caucasian type. For men - undershirt, pants, sheepskin shirts, beshmet, chekmen, belted with a narrow belt belt, on which weapons hung; fur coats, cloaks, papakhas, hoods, felt hats, leather, felt, morocco shoes, leggings. Women wore tunic shirts, wide trousers, a caftan, a long swinging dress, a belt, sheepskin coats, shawls, scarves, scarves, hats, and various jewelry. The festive dress was decorated with galloon, gold or silver embroidery, braid, and patterned braid.
Traditional food:
The basis of nutrition is meat, dairy and vegetable. Traditional dishes are boiled and fried meat, dried sausage made from raw meat and fat (jörme), fermented milk (airan), kefir (gypy ayran), yogurt (dzhuўurt ayran), various types of cheese. Of the flour dishes, unleavened cakes (gyrdzhyn) and pies (khychyn) with various fillings, fried or baked, soups on meat broth (shorpa) are popular, among the delicacies there are various versions of halva. Drinks: dairy - kefir and ayran, festive - buza and beer (cheese), everyday - tea from the Caucasian rhododendron.
Festive occasions: and the performance of various rituals, were distinguished by large feasts, for which various foods and drinks were prepared. Kabardians and Balkars solemnly celebrated the birth of a child, especially a boy, the successor of the family. These festivities were organized by his grandparents or uncles and aunts. They informed all relatives about the day of the holiday. The family began to prepare a national drink - buza (makhsyma, boza), fried lakumas, slaughtered chickens, sheep, etc. Prepared national halva (khelyue). There was no fixed date for these celebrations. It could be arranged in the first days after the birth of a child, or timed to coincide with the ceremony of tying a child into a cradle. Relatives brought to the holiday: a basket of lacum, live and slaughtered chickens, brought a live ram.
The most important part of this holiday was a sacrifice in honor of God. A person who was trusted to slaughter a ram or a bull said special words: so that God would make the boy strong, strong, prolong his life, etc. On the day of such a holiday, a competition was arranged. A pole with a crossbar was dug in the yard. A round smoked cheese was hung on the crossbar. On a well-oiled leather rope, the competitors had to get to the cheese and bite off a piece. The winner was waiting for a prize.
Kabardins and Balkars taught their children how to cook. Girls from an early age were taught to help their mother clean the room, wash and tidy the kitchen utensils, help in cooking, cook it themselves. The obligatory code for educating girls included knowledge of all national dishes, methods of their preparation, and the order in which they were served on the table. A girl was judged not only by her appearance, but also by her upbringing, her ability to do needlework, and cook delicious food. Boys were also taught how to cook.
Kabardians and Balkars have always been distinguished by moderation in food. It was considered completely unacceptable and indecent to say that you were hungry. Greed for food was considered a serious human vice. The custom required - to leave part of the food, although he himself did not eat. The custom also did not allow to be picky in food, to choose or ask for one dish, to refuse another. The food was prepared by the eldest woman of the family or one of the daughters-in-law. She divided it among family members. Usually food was prepared with a certain margin, because guests could arrive unexpectedly. At the same time, even a well-fed person did not have the right, without violating custom, to refuse food. Being hospitable, the Kabardians and Balkars unfriendly perceived the guest's refusal to eat. It might offend them. On the other hand, they looked at the person who ate their bread and salt as their own, dear, close person and provided him with all kinds of help. In the past, the food of Kabardins and Balkars was characterized by its seasonality. In summer, they ate mainly dairy and vegetable, and in autumn and winter - meat.
Traditional dances: The ancient dances of the Balkars and Karachais are of a syncretic nature, where the dance is closely connected with song, music, drama, prayer, props. The Karachay-Balkar dances reflected the work of a person, the way of life of the people, the animal and plant world, character, customs, history, which are transmitted by body movement in a figurative and imitative form. In the rituals, the dance carries a multifunctional specificity. Ritual dances did not remain the same as they originated in ancient times. Each era left its mark. They have transformed. At the same time, some elements fell out, enriched with new content. This is clearly evidenced by the dance options. In all rituals, dance occupies a dominant position among other genres of action. In dances, their performer tries to express with body movements archery at the object of hunting, the habits of wild animals, wounded game, gathering wild fruits and herbs, plowing, sowing, weeding, harvesting, threshing, sifting grain, shearing sheep, processing wool, sewing, etc. etc. All this is transmitted in the choreography conditionally, in a figurative-imitative form.
Ritual dances of Karachays and Balkars were an integral part of traditional holidays that go back to ancient times and are associated with the life of the people. The dance in the rite was, as it were, its skeleton, framework, the functions of the dance occupy the most important place here, that is, they are the spokesman for the main idea of the rite. If you remove the dance from the action, it will look unfinished. In the rituals, the dance carries a multifunctional specificity. For example, in "Hardar" the dance is dedicated to plowing, "Apsaty" and "Ashtotur" - to hunting, "Kurek biche" - to making rain, "Eliya" - to the actions of the god of war, "Bairim" - to the birth of a child, "Bashil" - to the ceremony of marriage, "Khychauman" is dedicated to those who died in the war, "Aymush" is a dance of cattle breeders, etc.
Applied Arts:
In Kabardino-Balkaria, woodcarving (furniture, dishes, chests, etc.), stone carving, embroidery with gold threads in combination with cord and galloon in large patterns (vegetative and horn-shaped motifs, rhombuses, circles, shamrocks) were developed. and sleeves of formal women's clothing. Grain, filigree, engraving, sometimes colored stones adorned metal products (earrings, rings, buckles, clasps, details of horse attire). By embossing, appliqué and embroidery, patterns were applied to leather goods (pouches, purses, cases). The Balkarians made felt carpets with a geometric tumbled pattern or with a pattern of large horn-shaped figures, solar signs, made using the technique of applique and mosaic (pieces of felt of different colors are sewn together). Among the Kabardians, weaving mats with a geometric pattern is common.
Musical instruments: Kabardians have long used original musical instruments. Of the wind instruments, bjami was widespread - a kind of flute made of reed or (later) from a gun barrel. Until now, there is a violin with hair strings and a bow in the shape of a bow. The violin was mainly a solo instrument, and was also used to accompany singing and dancing. Only men played them. The role of a percussion instrument was performed by a wooden mallet made of several planks tied together. Under the influence of other Caucasian peoples, such musical instruments as the zurna, tambourine and harmonica were introduced into the life of the Kabardians. Like all the peoples of the North Caucasus, the harmonica has become a female instrument here.
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2. The culture of the Circassians and Balkars in the system of Caucasian civilization
3. The relationship of culture and the environment of peoples
1. Settlement and dwellings of the Circassians and Balkars
2. Clothing of the Circassians and Balkars
3. Traditional food of the Circassians and Balkars
1. Blacksmithing and weapons production
2. Woolen production
3. Artistic processing of wood and stone. Jewelry production
1. Pagan beliefs
2. Christianity
1. Spiritual culture of the Circassians and Balkars and its role in the life of the people
I culture and its role in society
Zion culture (traditions, customs, etc.)
The subtle sphere of human activity. In spite of the fact that we today seem naive and unattractive
The cultures of the peoples, including the Adyghe and Balkar, left deep imprints of various social
Where was and remains the gateway to continuous movement
Chesky, starting from the moment of the formation of man himself
More than two hundred years
Tending the Caucasus. At the same time, one must also take into account the fact that it is precisely to the Caucasus, to its peoples, that much
3. The relationship of culture and the environment of the people
The object of aggression of many conquerors of all times and eras who invaded the North Caucasus. And posto
Niya depend on climate, soil fertility and other natural factors. IN
Speaking about the relationship between Russian nature and the character of Russian
Life support culture of the Circassians and Balkars
Covered parking lots with ground structures of a rectangular shape, built of poles and rods, plastered with
Call your wife. They live very cleanly in their villages and houses; they keep it clean
§ Clothing of the Circassians and Balkars You often hear disputes between different people about the question: “Did a person first get dressed and build a dwelling, or vice versa?”
Mi peoples, even whose ancestors are newcomers
Circassians wear shirts made of white linen or taffeta in white, yellow or red, fastened
It fell shallow, which increased the height of the girl. A married woman replaced her cap with a bandage with a knot on
Which conditions of his life and occupation, develops
They beat the spine into small pieces, separated the ribs
Salt is distributed, and salt is cool enough in
Number on butter and egg
Decorative and applied art of the Circassians and Balkars
Adyghe folk-decorative art is very original, - rightly notes M. A. Meretukov. It
As a result of archaeological excavations on the territory of the ancestors of the Adygs, they indicate that they are very
This kind of trade would not be brought up so often on
Wool suitable for the production of such good
The processing of wood and its use for a wide variety of needs is one of the most ancient
Until the middle of the 19th century, Kabardians made arba
"dyschek1"; "kyumushchyu" achieved significant success in the decoration of various items and parts of the women's
Adhere to Islam. One of the features of the religious beliefs of the peoples of the North Caucasus, including
Khan Giray wrote the following: As for their ancient Adygs
Scarecrow and walked around the yards, he was doused with water, and young
Sh. D. Inal-Ipa in his historical and ethnographic essay "Abkhazia" writes that, according to legend, seeds
To those who have received from the past by sending new bishops and saints
Renia Kabardy
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1. Spiritual culture of the Circassians and Balkars and its role in the life of the people.
Culture is a way of existence of an ethnos, of overcoming its historical space on the same geographical area. Culture (from the Latin "cultura") means "cultivation", "processing". In the XVIII-XIX centuries. the concept of "culture" assumed elegance of manners, erudition; a cultured person, as a rule, is an aristocrat. Culture is a multifaceted concept. We often use this word when referring to the quality of something. For example: “culture of work”, “culture of life”, “culture of family life”, “culture of recreation”, etc. Culture is a “second nature” artificially created by man. Thus, it is a special form of people's life activity, which makes it possible to manifest a variety of lifestyles, material ways of transforming nature and creating spiritual values. Structurally, culture includes: ways of maintaining the life of the community (economy); the specifics of human behavior and interaction; organized forms (cultural institutions) that ensure the unity of the community, the formation of a person as a cultural being; parts or subdivisions associated with the "production", creation and functioning of ideas, symbols, ideal entities that give meaning to the worldview that exists in culture. The traditional culture of the Circassians and Balkars, as well as other peoples, has its roots in the depths of centuries. One of the first social units on which it was based was the tribal, and then the rural community. It was in the depths of this social organization that the first democratic institutions were born, which became an integral part of the culture of the Circassians and Balkars. The value system of the culture of peoples, including the Adyghe and Balkar, was deeply imprinted by various social systems that existed for centuries.
2. The culture of the Circassians and Balkars in the system of the Caucasian civilization.
The Caucasus is located at the crossroads of continents, its natural and climatic conditions are not only unique, but also diverse. In these privileged places, of course, from the beginning of settled life, the human mass sought to concentrate, mix and accumulate. Such a "privileged" land in all respects is the Caucasus - the place where the great creations of the material and spiritual culture of the human race appeared, starting from the moment of the formation of man himself as a rational being. The Caucasus is one of the corners of our planet, where, standing out from nature itself, man entered into a “conflict” with nature itself in order to become its “king”. Subjected to constant pressure, both from the south and from the north, the peoples of the Caucasus, however, were able to create, preserve and develop a unique culture. The vitality of tradition is one of the most striking and striking features of the culture that developed in ancient times in the Caucasus, which to this day delights the world community with its uniqueness. In contrast to the variants of the development of the culture of Russia, the history and culture of the Caucasian peoples moved along a different path. First of all, since ancient times, the Caucasus has been influenced by Asia Minor, and Asia Minor, in turn, had contacts and influence from Mesopotamia and Syria, with their civilizations. The ethnic composition of the Caucasus is much more diverse than the composition of Russia in the past, at the initial stage of its formation. There were many religions in the Caucasus, including Christianity and Islam. A single centralized state was created in Russia. And in the Caucasus there are several states (the kingdom of Urartu, Colchis, Iberia, Ancient Sindica). Caucasian Eurasianism is further strengthened, one might even say, finally takes shape, after the appearance in this region of the first nomadic Iranian-speaking tribes from Asia.
3. The relationship of culture and the environment of peoples.
The Adyghe-Circassians and Balkars throughout their centuries-old history have created a phenomenal system of traditions and customs, which for centuries, surely, served as a guideline for maintaining harmony in their relationship with the environment, in educating a physically healthy, highly moral young generation, in regulating the whole gamut of relationships between people in social and family life; civilized relations with other peoples. The most important principles of Adyghe etiquette (Adyghe Khabze), its requirements are similar to many provisions of international diplomacy and international law. The most popular (1902-1972) of his concept was called cultural ecology. It studies the adaptation of society to the environment. Cultural adaptation is a continuous process, since no culture has adapted to the environment to such an extent as to become static. The core of culture is the set of traits most directly related to the activities of the production of means of subsistence and the economic structure of society. In periods of greater development, the ethnos not only subjugated many neighboring peoples, but also many elements of the Adyghe etiquette penetrated to them. The viability of this social system lies in the fact that it covers all spheres and aspects of people's life and their relationship. And therefore, it is no coincidence that it is still preserved and is a reflection of today's time. The traditional and material culture of the Circassians and Balkars entirely depends on their habitat. She was shaped by her influence.
1. Settlement and dwellings of the Circassians and Balkars.
Temporary camps, caves and light ground huts and sheds were characteristic of the North Caucasus until the last stage of the Paleolithic (Upper Paleolithic - 40-12 thousand years BC). IN
Neolithic era, in connection with the emergence of agriculture and animal husbandry, people have the first permanent settlements. Such settlements were found in the vicinity of Nalchik (Agubekovo settlement and Nalchik burial ground). Each dwelling had hearth pits and pits for storing grain. The dwellings were located at some distance from one another without any noticeable order. The Neolithic period includes, in many respects, original stone burial houses-dolmens, which are found in large numbers, still providing a mystery. in various regions of the North Caucasus. According to their purpose, dolmens are really specific religious burial structures. In the conditions of the collapse of the patriarchal-tribal foundations and the constant invasions of nomadic Scythian, Sarmatian and other tribes, an objective need arose to create fortified settlements, which were surrounded by high earthen ramparts and ditches. On top of the ramparts in some settlements there were additional fortifications, which consisted of two rows of wattle, covered with earth inside. They were intended to contain the cavalry of the attackers. The Adyghe tribal nobility, under the influence of the Greeks, built their palaces and castles from hewn and chipped stone. Palaces over 458 sq. m, where there were floors lined with stone slabs, and patios with wells. A dwelling made of stone in the early Middle Ages existed in many regions where the Circassians lived. By the middle of the XIX century. The most common type of Circassian settlements was a small monogenic (one-family) settlement, consisting of several (no more than 1-1.2 dozen) households, all members of which were directly related to each other. Since the 19th century among the Kabardians, polygenic (multi-family) villages that belonged to various princely surnames, which were divided quarterly, are already beginning to predominate. And the word "hyeble" begins to take on a new meaning.
2. Clothing of the Circassians and Balkars.
Clothing, as the most important element of material culture, has always been in the center of attention of the person himself, because it is a significant indicator of the standard of living. Throughout the history of mankind, it has constantly changed. The clothing of this or that people is its way of life, way of thinking, even, if you like, its philosophy. There is much in common in material culture, including in the form of national clothes of Kabardians and Balkars. They have always paid great attention to their appearance. One of the most important components of the men's outerwear of the Circassians and Balkars was the cloak. She protected a person from cold, snow, wind and rain. In many cases served as a blanket at night. To this day, it is worn by many breeders. Burka was worn with pleasure by many Russian generals and officers; many Europeans who have been to the North Caucasus noted that without a cloak it is impossible to imagine a mountaineer-man. Burkas were made from first-class wool of autumn haircut. The most common type of men's outerwear was a Circassian coat made of cloth, which was adopted by many peoples of the Caucasus. The top trousers were sewn mainly from homespun cloth or dense factory-made fabric. A very common outerwear for men of the Circassians and Balkars was a sheepskin coat. A fur coat, like a Circassian coat, a shirt, a beshmet, was fastened with 5-6 ribbon buttons and loops, and from the 20th century. - and with the help of metal hooks and loops. There was a certain similarity between the headdresses of the Circassians and the Balkars, but there were differences, primarily in the methods of decoration and embroidery that were on the cap. Women's headdresses of Circassian women and Balkar women were in the XVIII - early XX centuries. very diverse in material and form. They reflect social and age differences and the degree of financial situation of women. Adyghe and Balkar women usually wore homemade shoes.
3. Traditional food of the Circassians and Balkars.
Circassians and Balkars have always taken food and its intake very seriously. It is no coincidence that in connection with this they developed a special etiquette - table etiquette. Speaking about the Adyghe cuisine, it should be noted that it is not the same in everything among the Kabardians and the Adyghes. Many traditional Adyghe dishes are currently missing from the Balkars. They differ in the technology of preparation. Many technologies for preparing various seasonings and gravy for dishes also differ. Meat dishes were common traditional food of the Circassians and Balkars. They were prepared from lamb, beef, poultry and game - from fresh (steam), dried, smoked, boiled meat. The carcass was carefully butchered along its joints. Beef, especially lamb, was roasted on a spit over hot coals. At the celebrations, a whole ram carcass was fried and served on the table on a large round table, spreading pieces of pasta around, and each of the companions cut off pieces to taste with their knife. A very common dish throughout the Caucasus, including among the Circassians and Balkars, was shish kebab. Poultry dishes occupied a prominent place in the diet of the Circassians and Balkars. The famous dish "dzhed lybzhe" has received worldwide recognition.
Turkey, duck and goose were most often boiled and eaten with garlic sauce. Circassians and Balkarians also cooked fish dishes. The fish / was mostly river (trout, barbel, etc.). A large place in the diet of the Circassians and Balkars has always been occupied by dairy food. In the past, "shkhez" was prepared. This is a kind of canned milk. Adygs and Balkars widely used various flour products, dishes from legumes. A very tasty and nutritious corn dish - hominy ("myramyse"). Pasta was made from corn grits. Soup (“1eshry1”) was prepared from crushed corn grits.
1. Forging and weapons production.
The most important component of the material culture of any people, including the Circassians and Balkars, were household items and handicrafts. Daily necessities, weapons, various agricultural tools, household items were a necessary accessory for every Adyghe and Balkar family. Therefore, home crafts are an important object of study for any ethnic group, including the Circassians and Balkars. Adyghe folk - decorative art is very original, - rightly notes M. A. Meretukov. - It has passed a long and difficult path of development and has its own specific features. Absorbed individual elements from the arts and crafts of other peoples. But these elements were subjected to creative processing and organically merged with the folk art of the Circassians. Blacksmithing was one of the oldest and most important human activities. The production of metal by man, especially iron, is the time of the appearance of the first blacksmiths. Adygs have always especially revered iron. They gave him supernatural strength. Since ancient times, the Adygs have learned to receive and process this metal. Therefore, it is not for nothing that merchants have always shown a special interest in him. Iron was in special demand and cost 40 times more expensive than silver and 5-8 times more expensive than gold. The Circassians not only received steel, but they were well acquainted with the production of cast iron. Naturally, with such a level of development of metallurgy, they could not help but engage in blacksmithing. Therefore, the blacksmith's craft has received great development. During the Russian-Caucasian war, the demand not only for various types of firearms, but also for gunpowder increased significantly. The weapons of the Circassians and Balkars were the most diverse. In antiquity and the Middle Ages, bows and arrows were widely used. The arrows were carefully finished and supplied with an iron point. Bows were strong and large. Arrows were kept in quivers. There were also axes, pikes, spears, darts.
2. Woolen production.
Hundreds of thousands of sheep were bred by the Circassians and Balkars, and its wool was not only for domestic consumption, but was exported in large quantities to various countries. Not only wool was exported, but to a lesser extent, woolen products - cloaks, cloth and other goods, in addition, sheep skins and horns were exported. Woolen products and wool itself were sold in Turkish, Russian, Polish, Crimean, Moldavian and other markets. Circassians made various types of fabric from wool. To order, they made thinner wool. It should be noted that the Circassians have ancient and rich traditions of weaving. This is eloquently evidenced by the materials of archaeological excavations. For example, during the excavations of the ancient settlement of Elizabeth (4th century BC), clay whorls and weights from a loom were found. Every year 100,000 pieces of chekmen were exported from Circassia (clothing made from wool and very common throughout Tataria and Turkey). 5-6 thousand of a special kind of woolen dress were exported. By the way, this dress was of different varieties. 50-60 thousand trousers or shalwars made of wool were sold on the foreign market. One of the most popular wool goods was the famous cloak. It was highly valued not only within the country, but also in the foreign market. Every year, Circassia exported 200,000 cloaks of excellent quality in three varieties. To order, they made thinner wool.
3. Artistic processing of wood and stone. Jewelry production.
Processing wood and using it for a wide variety of needs is one of the most ancient crafts of the Circassians and Balkars. Numerous archaeological materials found in various regions of the North Caucasus testify to this. It is known that the most ancient ancestors of the Circassians lived on the present territory of the KBR, long before the beginning of our era. During the excavations of the Dolinskoye settlement of the Copper Age, a significant amount of clay with imprints of rods and poles, which formed the basis of the walls, was found. Masters of artistic processing of wood enjoyed great popularity among the people. Among the Circassians, arbs were especially valued, who made carts (“vygu”). Over time, the wheels and axle have undergone significant changes. An important place in the applied art of the Circassians and Balkars was occupied by the production of various mats and wickerwork from twigs, straw and kuga. Various motifs were reflected in wood carving, but floral ornament was predominant. Craftsmen made figurines of various animals as children's toys. At the end of XIX - beginning of XX century. in Bolshaya (Kabarda alone) there were about 50 professional jewelers. Their names were known far beyond its borders. Here are the names of some silversmiths, which are given by E. Astvatsaturyan in his work “Weapons of the Peoples of the Caucasus”: Begaev Natshao (second half of the 19th century) , the village of Khamidia, Doguzhaev Kady (second half of the 19th century), the village of Urozhaynoye, Sablirov X. (second half of the 19th century), the village of Staraya Krepost, Tumov F. (mid-19th century), the village of Nizhny Akbash; Habekov Nafedz (second half of the 19th century), villages Deyskoye, etc. The products of these craftsmen were in great demand among representatives of many nations.Adyghe women were engaged in embroidery with gold and silver threads, which were used to decorate dresses, bedding, curtains, hats.
1. Pagan beliefs.
Until now, in all world religions, there are remnants of polytheism (from the Greek "poly" - many and "theos" - god) - polytheism, which involves the worship of several gods - as opposed to monotheism (monotheism). We observe remnants of paganism (polytheism) among the Circassians and Balkars. Polytheism (polytheism), as the very first religious worldview, originated in the depths of a classless society and has come a long way. It should be noted here that paganism, although we call it a primitive religion, has a great vitality. “Born in the depths of a classless tribal society. The Circassians believed in polytheism, performed festivities in the name of thunder, paid divine honors to corruptible beings, and marked their error with many other beliefs of idolatry. During paganism among the Circassians, the main deities were: 1. Mesith (god of the forests). 2. Zeykuth (deity of riding). 3. Psykhueguasche (princess of the waters). 4. Achin. 5. Sozeresh. This deity was revered as the patron of agriculture. 6. Emish. The pagans revered this deity as the patron of sheep breeding and in honor of him they celebrated a festival in the fall, during the mating of rams.
2. Christianity.
Scientists note that the first seeds of Christianity were brought to the North Caucasus as early as the 1st century, thanks to the apostolic activity of Saints Andrew the First-Called and Simon Canonite in the Black Sea Greek colonies of the Caucasus. From here, Christianity also penetrated into the environment of the Adyghes (Circassians) inhabiting the North-Western Caucasus. Sh. Nogmov noted that Christianity was significantly established among the Circassians under the Greek emperor Justinian (527-565). Sh. Nogmov further writes that under the influence of the alliance with Justinian, the Greek clergy penetrated into the Caucasus Mountains, brought to us peaceful arts and enlightenment. This era includes the construction of the temples of God in our land. Christianity among the Circassians and Balkars could not have a stable position for a number of reasons. First of all, they should include the fact that these peoples did not have a centralized state system. Patriarchal-clan relations in the Adyghe and Balkarian societies for a long time played a significant role, therefore, tribal fragmentation was the main obstacle to the stable establishment of the Christian religion. Therefore, it is no coincidence that the ancient pagan amulets and rituals of these peoples held stable positions.
3. Islam.
First of all, it should be noted here that the strengthening of the political influence of Turkey and the Crimean Khanate in the North Caucasus played a big role in the displacement of Christianity and the establishment of Islam in the region. The gradual weakening and then final fall of Byzantium in the middle of the 15th century significantly contributed to the displacement of Christianity from the territory of the North Caucasus. (1453). Among the Circassians, only princes and nobility are Muslims and observe its rites, but they do it to clear their conscience, without any zeal, and often laugh at these religious ceremonies. The people are, in fact, pagan.” Consequently, Islam is pushing Christianity out of the spiritual life of the Adyghes and Balkars due to the strengthening of the position of Turkey and its vassal - the Crimean Khanate - in the North Caucasus. They seem to have “outstripped” Russia in Caucasian politics, including the establishment of Islam in the region. Any world religion was introduced into the environment of this or that people by sword and blood. It was affirmed in the course of the struggle by the bearer of this or that religion against other peoples. Islam was no exception in this regard, which entered the life of the Circassians and Balkars through the efforts of the Turks and Crimean Tatars. Islam began to penetrate to the Balkars much later. Scientists suggest that the beginning of its distribution in Balkar societies dates back to the first half of the 8th century. The main source, the holy book of Islam is the Koran (literally - recitation, reading). It contains the teachings, speeches and commandments of Muhammad (c. 570-632). He communicated them to his followers, starting from 609 in Mecca and Medina, as revelations of God, sent down to him through the holy spirit or through the archangel Gabriel. According to the content in the Qur'an, one can single out: Eschatology (the doctrine of the final destinies of the world and man) (Islam; Judaic and Christian views; ancient Arab customs, formalized in the ritual prescriptions of Islam; Arab folklore; Muslim legislation.
Caucasus. The edge is beautiful and strict. A world where everything is constantly changing and unchanged for centuries. Here, as nowhere else, there is a strong feeling of the infinity of time and a moment of existence. The earth here stretches to the sky, and nature takes the soul captive. It is also a region with a unique ethnic diversity. The land of the mountaineers. It is amazing how people managed to preserve their culture, identity, historical traditions, their languages over the centuries of living nearby. We have in our hands the “visiting card” of Kabardino-Balkaria.
“... At the edge of the horizon stretches a silver chain of snowy peaks, starting with Kazbek and ending with the two-headed Elbrus ... It's fun to live in such a land! Some kind of gratifying feeling is poured into all my veins. The air is pure and fresh, like the kiss of a child; the sun is bright, the sky is blue - what could be more? (Mikhail Lermontov)
REPUBLIC OF KABARDINO-BALKARIA
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Republic within the Russian Federation. Located mainly in Population- about 895 thousand people. Kabardino-Balkaria is a multinational republic, where representatives of more than a hundred nationalities live. Of these, Kabardians make up about 55 percent, Balkars - 11.6, Russians - 25.1, Ukrainians, Ossetians, Tats, Georgians and representatives of other nationalities - 8.3 percent Capital of the Republic- the city of Nalchik. The population is about 300 thousand people. |
Flag and coat of arms of Kabardino-Balkaria |
Biography of one of the main resort centers The south of Russia and the city of military glory began in 1724, when auls of the main princes of Kabarda - Aslanbek Kaytukin, Dzhambot Tatarkhanov, Kuchuk Dzhankhotov - appeared at the foot of the mountains of the Main Caucasian Range.
Nalchik is located in a semicircle of mountains and resembles a horseshoe. Maybe that's where the name comes from? Both from Balkar and Kabardian, the word "nal" is translated as a horseshoe.
There is another version. According to historians, in the old days there was viscous, impassable mud in this place - such that horseshoes were torn off horseshoes. One way or another, today the horseshoe is on the emblem of the city, and in the place of that legendary mud - swift avenues resting on the mountains.
The main decoration of Nalchik- the park, which is rightfully considered one of the best in Russia and the largest in Europe. The shady alleys of the park merge with the surrounding forests. There are 156 species of trees and shrubs in the park, including rare and even relict ones. Such, for example, as Gingko Biloba.
Speaking of Gingko: in the German city of Weimar there is a museum whose employees keep a register of all the miracle trees preserved on Earth. Nalchik copies are also listed in this "red book".
NATURE
Pearl of the Republic- two-peak Elbrus, reaching into the sky at its highest point at 5642 meters. It is not surprising that the image of its snow-capped peaks adorns the flag and coat of arms of Kabardino-Balkaria.
In addition, it emphasizes the long-term connection between two close peoples, Kabardians and Balkars. But the Creator, when he created this land, as if Elbrus alone was not enough.
Within the republic there are five more mountain giants, whose height is more than 5000 meters: Dykh-Tau, Koshtan-Tau, Shkhara, Dzhangi-tau, Pushkin Peak.
Sparkling glaciers, picturesque gorges, noisy waterfalls, emerald lakes - Kabardino-Balkaria has everything to fall in love with these places for life.
LANGUAGE
Kabardino-Balkaria says in three state languages: Russian, Kabardian and Balkar.
The Kabardian language belongs to the Abkhaz-Adyghe group of Caucasian languages. Writing in this language was created after the October Revolution. The literary language arose on the basis of the Bolshaya Kabarda dialect.
The Balkar language belongs to the northwestern branch of the Turkic languages. He kept the ancient Turkic roots clean - with his help, orientalists explore the ancient written languages of the Turkic system. It received its modern name in the 1950s - until that time it was called Mountain Tatar, Mountain Turkic, Tatar Jagatai.
At the celebration of the 450th anniversary of joining Russia. Nalchik, September 2007
RELIGION
Sunni Islam- Islam in the republic is practiced by about 75% of the population. Islam came to the territory of the republic in the XIV century - it is known that the Kabardian and Adyghe princes swore allegiance to the Russian prince "according to their faith and Muslim law." From the first half of the 19th century, Islam became the dominant religion of the Kabardians and Balkars. In addition to Islam, Christianity is represented in the republic, as well as Judaism. There are also representatives of other faiths.
TRADITIONS
Hospitality. Kabardino-Balkaria, like other Caucasian republics, is distinguished by hospitality. In the house of every highlander, the traveler will be fed and warmed. However, the treat is not the same for everyone. For example, instead of the national drink, booze, women will be served sweet tea. Men are the opposite. National halva is not prepared for a random guest, but it will certainly be put on the table if the visit was known in advance.
Wedding. The groom leaving for the bride is seen off with an evening feast, to which the whole village gathers. The procession with the bride along the way is met by friends and relatives of the groom - in the field they arrange a feast, raise toasts, dance. After that, the guests are escorted into the house and walk until the morning. The rider, who manages to get into the bride's room on horseback, is treated to a large bowl of buza, lakum, and meat. The most authoritative woman of the family smears her daughter-in-law's lips with honey and butter so that the new family will be just as sweet and pleasant for her.
PRIDE
KITCHEN
Buza(makhsima) is a low-alcohol, ancient and most popular drink in the republic. Usually made from corn or millet flour, sugar or honey, barley malt. Brewed for a wedding, on the occasion of big holidays and ritual events.
lacums- soft and airy dough product. Each housewife has her own recipe, which, as a rule, is not disclosed.
Halva- a favorite delicacy of Kabardians and Balkars. Not everyone can cook real halva. Often, a special craftswoman, who is famous for cooking halva, is specially invited to a family where a big feast is planned.
Khychiny- a dish of Balkarian cuisine, the thinnest pies made of unleavened dough with all kinds of fillings: potatoes with cheese, cottage cheese, fresh mint, meat. To visit the republic and not try khychins means not to learn anything about these places.
Recipes for khychins and lakums can also be found in our magazine in the section
("A feast with a mountain - two-headed").
The business card was made by Alexander Lastin.
Photo: Sergey Klimov, Zhanna Shogenova.
