TREE CULT IN THE MYTHOLOGY OF THE TURKIC AND SLAVIC PEOPLES

Анотація

The article discusses the mythical nature of the tree cult, which is widespread in the mythology of the Turkic and Slavic peoples. The article comparatively shows that the tree, with its rich symbolism, acts as the beginning of life, parent, healer, protector, savior and other functions. Trees such as beech, fir, pine, oak, willow and others are considered sacred. The fact that the tree, preserving its original traces in myths, beliefs and trials, ancient rituals, the transformation of the tree into a symbol of eternity and youth, its function as a world (life) tree, has raised it to the level of a cult. The sacredness of oak, pine, fir in the Slavs, pine, maple, willow and other trees in the Turks, as well as a number of common mythological motives are related to these features.