Ambivalence of the Image of Fire in the Belarusian National Culture

Abstract

The relevance of this study is due to the current state of the information space associated with the rapid development of globalization processes. Under these conditions, traditional Belarusian culture may finally lose its identity, which will subsequently inevitably lead to the dissolution or complete loss of its unique mental traits. The article is devoted to the analysis of the mythological ideas of Belarusians, the peculiarities of their life, traditional holidays and rituals using fire as an important sacred element of the Belarusian national culture. As a result, the author comes to the conclusion that fire is perceived by Belarusians as an element of ambivalent nature. Moreover, in their minds, fire is often presented as a phenomenon that has a positive effect on their way of life. Also in Belarusian traditions and rituals there is an inextricable connection between the cult of fire and the cult of ancestors. The author argues that at the present stage, the symbolism of fire plays an important role in the formation of a positive attitude towards the cultural heritage of Belarus. The “participation” of fire in the preservation and development of Belarusian national traditions has a positive impact on the formation of value orientations of society, including the younger generation.

Keywords

• fire symbolism
• ambivalence
• belarusian national culture
• ancestor cult
• spiritual culture