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COLOR SYMBOLISM IN KYRGYZ LINGUISTIC CULTURE
SVETLANA ALYMKULOVA
Senior Lecturer of the Department of English Philology, Institute of Philology and Intercultural Communication, Osh State University.
ELMIRA KARABEKOVA
Senior Lecturer of the Department of English Philology, Institute of Philology and Intercultural Communication, Osh State University.
DARIKA BEKKULOVA
Lecturer of the Department of English Philology, Institute of Philology and Intercultural Communication, Osh State University.
Abstract: The current paper is about color symbolism in Kyrgyz linguistic culture which is deeply rooted in traditional beliefs, nomadic heritage, and cultural practices. It also deals with significant role in conveying cultural values, aesthetic preferences, and spiritual beliefs within Kyrgyz society. The paper touches upon certain colors in Kyrgyz traditions and folklore and explores the meanings of colors in Kyrgyz culture and language, focusing on the symbolic roles of key colors such as white, black, red, blue, and green.
Keywords: color symbolism, cultural beliefs, religious traditions, white, black, green, red, gold,
blue.
Color symbolism in Kyrgyz linguistic culture holds a significant place, deeply rooted in the nation's traditions, beliefs, and way of life. Colors are not only used for their visual qualities but also convey meanings that reflect cultural values, social hierarchies, and spiritual beliefs. The language incorporates colors to symbolize various concepts, emotions, and social norms, influencing the way Kyrgyz people perceive and describe the world around them.
Colors play a significant role in traditional Kyrgyz ceremonies and clothing. White is often used in wedding attire to symbolize the bride's purity, while red elements in the groom's costume may represent courage and energy. During national celebrations, such as "Nowruz" (the Persian New Year), colorful decorations—especially green—signify renewal and the coming of spring.
In funerals, dark colors, especially black, are worn to express grief and mourning. Yet, over time, even these rituals have evolved, incorporating various shades to reflect individual family traditions and beliefs.
While Kyrgyzstan has a diverse population with influences from various ethnic groups and cultures, certain colors hold particular significance within Kyrgyz traditions and folklore. Here's an overview of color symbolism in Kyrgyz linguistic culture:
White (ak-AK) holds symbolic importance in Kyrgyz culture, representing purity, sincerity, and spirituality. White is often associated with ceremonial occasions, such as weddings and religious rituals. Traditional Kyrgyz clothing, especially for special events, may incorporate white fabrics or embroidery as a symbol of auspiciousness and reverence. It is also associated with sacredness and is used in various traditional rituals and practices. For instance, white is considered the color of milk, which is not just a staple food but also a sacred substance, symbolizing life and nourishment. The phrase "aK ^».n-ak jol" (white road) is used to wish someone a good path or bright future, suggesting purity in one's intentions and actions. White also conveys the idea of peace and blessings. For example, elders often give "aK 6aTa" (white blessing), which is a type of well-wishing or prayer bestowed upon younger generations. In traditional ceremonies, wearing white clothes or using white decorations signifies spiritual readiness and purity.
The phrase "ак сакал-ак sakal" (white beard) is used in Central Asia and the Caucasus, an elder is called an "elder', which is translated into Turkish as "white beard" or "wisdom and experience, coming from old age".
Blue (kok-кек) is another significant color in Kyrgyz symbolism, often associated with the sky, water, and the natural world. Blue symbolizes tranquility, peace, and harmony with nature. In Kyrgyz traditional art and textiles, shades of blue are commonly used to depict landscapes, rivers, and celestial motifs. The color blue holds a special place in Kyrgyz culture due to its association with the sky and the Tengri, the sky god of ancient Turkic and Mongolic religions. It symbolizes freedom, vastness, and eternity. In Kyrgyz, the phrase "кек асман" (blue sky) often refers to a state of peace and tranquility. Blue is also connected to notions of loyalty and wisdom. In traditional Kyrgyz thought, the blue sky serves as a metaphor for clear, unbiased judgment. In this way, blue extends beyond its visual perception to embody spiritual depth and intellectual clarity.
Red (kyzyl-кызыл) carries both positive and negative connotations in Kyrgyz culture. On one hand, red symbolizes vitality, strength, and passion. It is often used in decorative arts, such as embroidery and felt crafts, to add vibrancy and energy to designs. However, red can also symbolize danger or warning, especially in folklore and superstitions. Red is a vibrant color associated with life, and celebration in Kyrgyz culture. It symbolizes energy, courage, and passion. Traditional Kyrgyz clothing, especially festive garments, often incorporates red elements to signify joy and festivity. The phrase "кызыл жYз" (red face) is used to describe someone who is healthy and full of life. (example) Additionally, red can denote courage and bravery. It is commonly associated with warriors and historical figures known for their heroic deeds. In folk tales and epics, red is often linked to fire and blood, symbolizing the life force and the struggles that define human existence.
The red field of the flag represents the Kyrgyz people's fortitude and resilience in the face of challenges. It symbolizes their strength and determination to overcome adversity and protect their way of life. The sun with rays symbolizes peace and prosperity, reflecting the Kyrgyz people's aspirations for a bright and prosperous future. The red color of flag symbolizes the valor and bravery. The golden sun, bathed in its rays, represents peace and wealth. Tunduk is a symbol of a father's house, in a broader sense and the world as a universe. Forty rays, united in a circle, mean a union of 40 ancient tribes into the united Kyrgyzstan.
Green (jashyl-жашыл) represents fertility, growth, and prosperity in Kyrgyz symbolism. It is associated with the lush pastures of the Kyrgyzstan landscape and the vitality of agricultural life. Green is often used in traditional motifs and patterns to evoke feelings of abundance and renewal. It also symbolizes life, nature, and renewal in Kyrgyz linguistic culture. It is associated with the earth and all things that grow, representing fertility and the continuity of life. The term "жашыл майдан" (green field) can symbolize the abundance of nature, agricultural prosperity, and the pastoral lifestyle that many Kyrgyz people historically led. Green is also seen as a sacred color in Islamic culture, which has a significant influence in Kyrgyzstan. As such, green may symbolize faith, spiritual growth, and divine blessings.
Gold (altyn-алтын): Gold symbolizes wealth, abundance, and prestige in Kyrgyz culture. It is often used in decorative arts, such as jewelry and embroidery, to denote prosperity and social status. Gold accents are commonly found in traditional Kyrgyz costumes and ceremonial attire. An idiom "алтындан артык" is translated as "more precious than gold" describes something or someone extremely valuable or precious, not necessarily in a material sense.
Black (kara-Kapa) color carries complex meanings in Kyrgyz linguistic culture. It is less commonly used in Kyrgyz symbolism. While it can symbolize mourning, sadness, or misfortune, it also represents strength, authority, and resilience. For instance, the term "кара киши" (black person) might refer to a common person or an average man, distinguishing him from those in positions of power or high social status. Black can also signify the unknown or mysterious. The dual nature of black in Kyrgyz culture reveals how the color encompasses both negative and positive aspects, symbolizing life's challenges and the power to rise above them.
Multicolored Patterns: Many traditional Kyrgyz textiles and crafts feature intricate multicolored patterns, which often carry symbolic meanings related to nature, spirituality, and cultural heritage. These patterns may incorporate a combination of colors such as red, blue, white, and green, each contributing to the overall symbolism and aesthetic of the design.
The Use of Colors in Proverbs and Idioms
Kyrgyz proverbs and idioms often incorporate colors to express cultural values and social norms. These expressions use colors metaphorically to convey meanings that go beyond their literal sense:
• "Ак ийилет, бирок сынбайт" ("White bends, but does not break") implies that a person of pure character can endure hardships without losing integrity.
• "Кара курсак тойбойт" ("The black stomach is never full") refers to greed or insatiable desire.
• "Кызыл тили бар" ("He/she has a red tongue") describes someone who is eloquent or persuasive in speech.
• "Жашылдан чыга элек" ("Still green") means someone who is still inexperienced, immature, or young.
• "Кара терге тYШYY" ("to work extremely hard") which is used to denote someone putting in a great deal of effort or experiencing hardship.
• "Кекту карап жYPYY" ("head in the clouds") means to dream about something an attainable or to live in a world of illusions, ignoring reality.
In addition to these specific color associations, it's important to recognize that color symbolism in Kyrgyz linguistic culture is also influenced by broader cultural beliefs, religious traditions, and regional variations. Colors may hold different meanings or interpretations depending on the context and individual perspectives. Overall, color symbolism plays a significant role in conveying cultural values, aesthetic preferences, and spiritual beliefs within Kyrgyz society.
In Kyrgyz linguistic culture, colors are much more than visual experiences; they carry layers of meanings that reflect the nation's historical, spiritual, and social fabric. From the sacred white of milk to the deep blue of the sky, color symbolism serves as a linguistic and cultural tool that conveys essential values, beliefs, and emotional states. Understanding these symbolic meanings offers deeper insights into Kyrgyz culture and the worldview embedded within the language.
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