Symbols in kazakh healing practice: cultural and anthropological analysis

Abstract

The article is devoted to one of the important elements of the intangible cultural heritage and spiritual identity of the Kazakh people – traditional Kazakh folk healing. The article provides a cultural and anthropological analysis of symbols in Kazakh healing practices, highlighting the relevance of the topic in the context of the revival of cultural identity and the preservation of intangible cultural heritage. The cultural and anthropological analysis of symbols in Kazakh healing practices allows for a deeper understanding of the cultural codes underlying traditional methods of treatment and their significance in the daily life of the Kazakh people.

The aim of the article is to identify the cultural and anthropological significance of symbols used in Kazakh healing practices, as well as to explore their role in preserving and transforming the cultural heritage of the Kazakh people.

The research focuses on the study of symbols such as tumar (amulets), fire, and kamshy (whip) in the context of Kazakh healing practices. Special attention is given to their role in protection from evil spirits, healing illnesses, and maintaining spiritual balance.

The work is based on the anthropological theories of J. Frazer and B. Malinowski, ethnographic studies by O. Tleukabyluly, Sh. Ualikhanov, R. Mustafina, and S. Kantarbayeva, as well as contemporary applied works by K. Aidarkhanuly, O. Abdirahman, and A. Utegenova. The theoretical value of the research lies in deepening the understanding of the cultural and symbolic aspects of Kazakh healing practices, as well as in identifying their connection with shamanism, Turkic beliefs, and Islamic traditions.

The study employs methods of semiotic analysis, description, comparison, as well as ethnographic and cultural-anthropological approaches. The use of qualitative content analysis has made it possible to identify archetypes and mythological plots associated with healing practices.

The results of the research can be used to preserve and popularize the traditional knowledge of the Kazakh people, as well as to integrate this knowledge into modern scientific and practical approaches. The study of symbols and rituals in healing practices contributes to strengthening national identity and cultural continuity, which is particularly important in the context of contemporary social changes.

Keywords: Kazakh healing practices, symbol, ritual, tumar, ukuayak, fire, alastau, zhelushuk, kamshy