Animal cult living in uzbek folk beliefs

Abstract

Humans have lived a life intertwined with animals since the first moments. While some animals have provided convenience in people's lives, a defense mechanism has been established against others. Animals are of great importance for humans to survive in or out of society. It is not possible for these beliefs, which vary from region to region, to have a single form. For example, an animal may have positive connotations in one society and negative connotations in another. Therefore, beliefs are shaped according to these points of view. The natural events that have occurred over time and the efforts to make sense of some things in daily life have led to a search among people. The beliefs that emerged as a result of this search provided convenience at the point of making sense of life. Thus diversification of beliefs can make continuaiton of human existence more convenient. Uzbek Turks, who make their living from animal husbandry, shared their lives with animals. Some rituals that should be applied in ceremonies are shaped according to the animal calendar. This calendar, popularly known as "Çorva Hisobi", is important as it provides a source of thoughts about animals. In general, an animal culture was created according to this calendar, which includes beliefs about animals such as ox, cow, sheep, lamb and ram. There are also animal spirits among the spirits that help shamans in shamanic narratives. Animal-ancestral belief has found a place for itself among the Uzbek Turks as well as in the Turkic world. The names of many of the animals mentioned in the study were also used in calendars to determine time. Looking at the origin of beliefs about animals, it is aimed to reach information about animal cult. In this study, firstly the written sources for the Uzbek folk beliefs were investigated. Then, information was given about the status of animals in various beliefs and practices in daily life. In this study, examples of animal beliefs living in Uzbek Turks will be discussed.

Keywords

• animal cult
• swallow
• belief
• uzbek