Traditions and customs

Traditions and customs play a great role in the life of the Kazakh people. One of the best traditions of the past, which is supported and developed in our modern life, is hospitality. There are many rituals and ceremonies connected with hospitality. For example, the Kazakhs present a boiled sheep head to the most honourable guest. Hospitality is always followed by presents. Honourable guests are presented with a ‘shapan’, a national coat, with a cap and a white horse.

Another good tradition is respect to old people. This kind tradition is connected with other wonderful qualities and habits. So, according to this tradition, children are taught to be friendly and reserved, greet elderly people, make ways, and help them.

ASAR

“Asar” is the tradition of joint and gratis work. It is one of the most wonderful traditions of nomadic life. Aul (village) inhabitants gather together and do the work that is usually difficult for a sole family. Asar is organized by volunteers. This tradition is a reflection of spiritual richness, the unity of countrymen, the ambitions to help someone without compensation. That’s why Asar’s distinctive characteristic feature is working free of charge.

The only expenditure for hosts is to provide a great deal of food for the workers. Food and drinks must be in abundance. If the workers don’t manage the work in a day, they will gather again.

It was considered indecent not to come to an announced Asar. With the help of Asar, people often built houses, dwellings for those who needed them (like just married or retired people). Asar is a humane tradition, widely spread in the past. Nowadays this wonderful tradition needs developing.

Ø Answer the questions:

1. What is “Asar”?

2. Do volunteers get money for their work?

3. Why is it considered indecent not to come to ‘Asar’?

Ø What have you learnt about Asar? Tell your friends.

Date: 2015-01-12; view: 987