Scientific journal
Scientific Review. Historical sciences

Personal portfolio

ARMS IN THE RITES AND CEREMONIES OF THE OSSETIANS

Багаев А.Б.
Throughout the whole history of mankind, weapons have always accompanied men. In the past, it helped people to protect themselves, and was an important tool for food-capturing. Despite this, the attitude to the weapons in different cultures was not uniform. Due to the peculiarities of the Ossetian nation’s historical development, it has developed special attitude to the weapons. Perhaps this determines the use of armaments by the Ossetians, not only in the military field, but in various ceremonies during holidays and in everyday life. Studies on the role of arms in these rites are necessary for complete and profound disclosure of the phenomenon of military culture with the Ossetians. This article discusses the rites relating to the funeral and memorial rites, the rituals accompanying some popular festivals and rituals, in which arms were used. An attempt is also made to explain the significance of weapons use while practicing certain rituals or ceremonies.