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KorkutFolk singer
Country:
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Content:
- The Saga of Korkyt Ata: A Legendary Figure in Kazakh Culture
- Miraculous Birth and Symbolic Name:
- Shamanistic Beliefs and Rituals
- Immortality and Reincarnation:
- Visionary Dreams and Prophecies:
- The Invention of the Kobyz:
- Moral Teachings and Values
- Moderation and Contentment:
- Korwyt Ata in Kazakh Culture
- Influence on Kazakh Mentality:
The Saga of Korkyt Ata: A Legendary Figure in Kazakh Culture
Early Life and OriginsKorwyt Ata, a renowned folk singer, seer, and the first Kazakh baksy-shaman, is a pivotal figure in Kazakh folklore. His teachings and prophecies have been passed down through generations, deeply ingrained in the Kazakh psyche.
Miraculous Birth and Symbolic Name:
Legend has it that Korkyt was miraculously born to Kyrmash and the "fair-skinned daughter of a demon." His name, a symbolic act of enchantment, translates to "the one who instils fear or awe." However, scholars believe this may have been a protective pseudonym assumed after his birth.
Shamanistic Beliefs and Rituals
Korkyt's connection to shamanism is evident in his ability to communicate with the supernatural realm. He is often depicted as a wise mentor, guiding the khan and the people with his counsel. However, fear of death and attempts to escape it are recurring themes in legends of shamanistic cultures.
Immortality and Reincarnation:
In Kazakh belief, Korkyt was not truly dead but had been removed from the living. This concept, known as immortality or reincarnation, challenged the Islamic worldview, which saw the end of life as a divine decree.
Visionary Dreams and Prophecies:
Korkyt's visionary dreams of gravediggers preparing a tomb for him prompted him to embark on a journey to the "four corners of the world." Despite evading death in his travels, he ultimately returned home, believing that even in exile, his birthplace held a deeper significance.
The Invention of the Kobyz:
Legend credits Korkyt with inventing the kobyz, a traditional Kazakh stringed instrument. He is said to have crafted it from the hide of a camel, giving rise to the belief that the kobyz's melodies originated from the sounds of incantations and spells.
Moral Teachings and Values
Humanity and Compassion:Korkyt's teachings emphasized the inherent value of human life and the importance of empathy. He condemned those who lacked compassion or brought shame upon their family.
Moderation and Contentment:
Korkyt believed in moderation and contentment. He warned that excessive desires would lead to dissatisfaction and that true fulfillment lay in accepting one's fate.
Korwyt Ata in Kazakh Culture
Cultural Icon and Symbol:Korkyt Ata is regarded as a cultural icon in Kazakhstan, representing the ideals of wisdom, prophecy, and the preservation of ancient traditions.
Influence on Kazakh Mentality:
According to the renowned ethnologist Chokan Valikhanov, the legend of Korkyt Ata is a fundamental component of the Kazakh mindset. He viewed Korkyt as the first Kazakh shaman and poet, his teachings and beliefs shaping the spiritual and cultural identity of the Kazakh people.