The Kazakh people are an ethnic group native to the vast and varied landscapes of Central Asia, predominantly Kazakhstan.
Tengrism: A Pre-Islamic Layer of Kazakh Spiritual Beliefs
Most religious Kazakhs today are Sunni Muslims, but an older layer of belief, Tengrism, survives in Kazakh tradition and folklore. It is an ancient belief system that centers on the sky god Tengri, who embodies the sky itself and serves as the supreme deity. Tengrism emphasizes harmony between the sky, earth, and living beings, with Tengri maintaining this balance. The sky god is not only a creator and sustainer but also a figure of justice, guiding the fate of individuals and nations.
Shamanism: Intermediaries Between Worlds
Kazakh shamans act as intermediaries between the human and spiritual worlds. These individuals, known as 'baksy' or 'kam', possess the ability to communicate with spirits, deities, and ancestors, often entering trances to seek guidance, healing, or assistance in various matters. Rituals conducted by shamans are part of Kazakh culture, encompassing ceremonies for birth, death, marriage, and other significant life events.
Mythological Beings and Creatures
Kazakh mythology is populated with a host of deities, heroes, and mythological creatures, each embodying aspects of the natural world or human experience. Among these are:
Samruk, a mythical bird that represents the tree of life, connecting the heavens, earth, and underworld. It is said to lay its eggs in the World Tree, symbolizing the cycle of life and the connection between all living things.
Aydar, a heroic figure who embodies the virtues of bravery, strength, and wisdom. Legends of Aydar often involve quests to defeat monsters or solve great problems, reflecting the nomadic Kazakhs' values of courage and resourcefulness.
Karakurt, a legendary spider, often represents the dangers lurking in the natural world. Tales of the Karakurt serve as cautionary stories, teaching children and adults alike respect for the natural world's power and mystery.
Albasti is a malevolent spirit or demon often associated with childbirth and children. She is believed to be a figure that causes harm to infants and pregnant women, embodying the fears surrounding childbirth and infant mortality. The Kazakhs performed rituals and amulets were used to protect against her maleficence.
Kishi is a demon with two faces that embodies the dual nature of good and evil. It is said to deceive humans with its human face, while its other face, hidden behind its head, is that of a monster. The Kishi represents the idea that appearances can be deceiving and the complexity of human nature.
Shurale is a forest spirit known for its ability to shape-shift and its long, ticklish fingers. It is said to lead travelers astray, making them lost in the forest. However, it has a weakness: it is very ticklish. Legends tell of individuals escaping the Shurale by making it laugh with tickling.
Aqkorqyq is a mythical bird, often associated with omens and prophecy. Unlike the benevolent Samruk, the Aqkorqyq is sometimes considered a harbinger of ill fortune or an indicator of the unseen dangers that lurk in the world.
Bekter is a type of ancestral spirit revered in Kazakh culture. These spirits of the ancestors are considered protectors of their descendants, offering guidance and assistance. The cult of ancestors is part of Kazakh mythology, with Bekter linking the living with the spiritual heritage of their forebears.
Tulpar refers to the mythical winged horses that serve as mounts for heroes and spirits. These majestic creatures symbolize speed, freedom, and the connection between the earthly and spiritual realms. The Tulpar is often depicted as a loyal companion to those undertaking heroic quests or journeys.
Zher Ana is the personification of the earth in Kazakh mythology, revered as a nurturing and life-giving force. She represents fertility, abundance, and the care of the natural world.
Other Beliefs and Practices
Kazakh belief includes the practice of Tusau kesu, a ritual cutting of the ties that bind a child's legs before they take their first steps. This ceremony is meant to ensure a child's independence and strength, symbolizing their journey into the wider world.
Another significant practice is the memorial feast, or asad, which is held in honor of deceased ancestors. This event serves as a way to maintain connections with the past, honoring the spirits of ancestors and seeking their blessings for the living.
The Cult of Ancestors
Kazakh spirituality includes ancestor worship and the veneration of forebears. This is reflected in the practice of zhyrau, epic singers who recount the deeds of ancestral heroes, preserving the memory of their virtues and valor. These narratives not only serve as a form of historical record but also instill a sense of pride and identity among the Kazakh people.