THE USE OF PLANTS BY KYRGYZ IN RITUALS, TRADITIONS AND RITUALS (based on field materials from the southwestern region of the Ferghana valley, in the late XIX - early XX centuries)

Abstract

This article provides information on the use of plants and materials in the rituals and traditions of the Kyrgyz people living in the southwestern part of the Fergana Valley. The variety of plants, their meaning and use strongly influence folk beliefs. Kyrgyz peoples used plants in various life events, such as when their daughter-in-law was taken away from her parents’ home, the Beshik toi ceremony, the funeral of the deceased, and other rituals. Through these plants, wishes for health and prosperity are expressed. Rituals and traditions related to plants such as juniper, wormwood, wheat, cotton, basil, rice, and others had various purposes. For example, when performing a ceremony with a cradle, fried wheat was poured in, the wish «let it grow like wheat» is pronounced. During the burial ceremony, plants such as mint, basil, wormwood were used to flavor the rooms, as well as to
comfort the relatives of the deceased, the nails were smeared with cotton soaked in oil, the space was cleaned with juniper and boiled sumalak, and they asked God for a child. In order to wish the bride happiness, prosperity and good luck, wheat or rice was poured. During the preparation of women for childbirth, various rituals and rituals related to nutrition are used. These traditions and rituals confirm the Kyrgyz people’s connection with nature and reflect their understanding of the world, aimed at improving human life and striving for well-being.