Vol. 14 (2020): XIV International Symposium Contemporary Issues of Literary Studies : The Silk Road Countries` Folklore
Myth, Ritual and Symbol in Folklore and Literature

Myth and Ritual in Ossetian Folklore

Naira Bepievi
Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University

Published 2020-10-20

Keywords

  • Ossetian Folklore,
  • Myth,
  • Ritual

Abstract

The Ossetian mythological world is quite diverse and specific. The Ossetian mythological sphere implies, on the one hand, involvement in the process of the beginning, creation and formation of the universe (“Legends of the Tsarsiats”), and on the other hand, those cult and ritual processes of cosmic creatures and individual temples or deities equated with them that are known for many individual characteristics along with common ones (Nart Saga, Ossetian myths).

Ossetian is represented in mythology by rituals and ceremonies dedicated to individual deities. Especially a lot of rituals are associated with the names of the Mother of God (Mad Mairam), Vastirj (St. George), Safa (hearth deity), Vatsila (St. Elijah), Avsati (patron of animals) and other deities. Ossetians know Donbedtir, Tutir or other deities through the various mythology stories. Certain rituals have been preserved in their name, which generally express something in common with Caucasian mythology. However, they are more individual and specific.