THE INSTITUTION OF SAYYIDISM IN THE CONTEXT OF ANCESTOR CULT

Abstract

The article discusses the sayids belonging to the wise old man archetype and the belief in them among the people in the context of ancestor cult. The functions of the Sayyids as a transformative paradigm of the ancestor cult, such as healing, wisdom, foresight, guidance, and salvation, have been examined. Where appropriate, similar and different characteristics of saints are also given. The article discusses the restrictions placed on their activities during the Soviet era. Likewise, the genealogy of the sayyids was investigated where appropriate.