The Cherkess, also known as the Circassians, are a North Caucasian ethnic group native to the northwest region of the Caucasus Mountains in Russia. They are an ancient people.

Circassian dancers in Kafr Kama, Israel.
Circassian dancers in Kafr Kama, Israel. צילום:ד"ר אבישי טייכר · CC BY 2.5. Resized for display.

Beliefs and Mythology

The traditional Cherkess religion is a complex belief system that blends elements of nature worship, animism, ancestor worship, and totemism. Prior to the introduction of Islam in the region during the 17th century, the Cherkess people practiced a polytheistic religion with a pantheon of gods and goddesses, each associated with specific aspects of nature, human activities, and emotions.

Deities

  • Tha, short for Thashkho, is the supreme god in Cherkess mythology. He is the creator of the universe and the god of the sky. Tha is a benevolent deity, responsible for maintaining order in the world, and is often depicted as a wise and just ruler.

  • Shible, also known as Shiblé, is the deity of lightning and thunder. People and trees struck by lightning were regarded as sacred.

  • Mezyt, also known as Mezit or Mezytha, is the god of the forests. He controlled the fate of wild animals and dictated success in the hunt.

Heroes and Mythological Creatures

  • The Nart Saga is a collection of epic tales featuring a group of legendary heroes known as the Narts. These stories are shared among various Caucasian peoples, including the Cherkess. The Narts are semi-divine beings, born of the union between gods and mortals, who possess exceptional strength, wisdom, and courage.

Rituals and Practices

Some of the most notable rituals include:

  • Khabze is an ancient code of ethics and social norms that governs Cherkess society. It emphasizes values such as respect for elders, hospitality, honor, and loyalty. Khabze is tied to Cherkess mythology and is believed to have been established by the gods themselves.

  • The Cherkess people traditionally offered sacrifices to their gods as a way of expressing gratitude, seeking protection, or requesting favors. Animal sacrifices, such as sheep or goats, were performed during important religious ceremonies or before embarking on a significant endeavor.

  • Dance is an essential aspect of Cherkess culture, serving both as a form of artistic expression and a means of worship. Ritual dances were performed during religious ceremonies to honor the gods, invoke their blessings, and celebrate important events.

  • Ancestor worship is a central component of Cherkess beliefs, with deceased ancestors seen as intermediaries between the living and the gods. The Cherkess people honor their ancestors through various rituals, including the preparation of special meals and the construction of sacred shrines.

  • Totemism is a significant aspect of Cherkess spirituality, with certain animals, plants, and natural phenomena seen as embodying divine powers. Cherkess clans are often associated with specific totems, which serve as symbols of their collective identity and spiritual connection to the gods.