RITUAL, IDENTITY, AND SOCIAL COHESION: AN INTERCULTURAL INTERPRETATION OF NOWRUZ AND BERIKAOBA

TAMILA KOSHORIDZE; DAVID CHOCHISHVILI; ELVIRA ASLANOVA

TAMILA KOSHORIDZE Doctor of Ethnology Head of the S. Makalatia Gori Historical and Ethnographic Museum http://orcid.org/0009-0009-0459-1796
DAVID CHOCHISHVILI Doctor of History, AS.Professor of Gori State University Gori, Chavchavadze st., №53, 1400, Georgia http://orcid.org/0000-0003-0627-5980
ELVIRA ASLANOVA Doctoral Student, Institute of Caucasiology Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University 19 Ilia Chavchavadze Avenue, Tbilisi 0179, Georgia http://orcid.org/0000-0003-2754-8386

Abstract

The vernal equinox represents one of the most significant cyclical moments in the cultural history of humankind. In various civilizations, this period has been associated with the renewal of nature, the rebirth of life, and the beginning of a new year. The Caucasian and Near Eastern cultural spaces are particularly rich in spring rituals. In this context, a comparative analysis of Berikaoba and Nowruz is of special importance, as two cultural practices of different origins but similar functions.

Due to its geopolitical location, Georgia has historically been a crossroads of peoples and cultures, resulting in demographic diversity, the synthesis of various cultural traditions, and a unique cultural identity. Ethnic and religious diversity constitutes a significant asset of the country. The study of centuries-long coexistence among different ethnic groups and their mutual cultural influences provides a solid foundation for both the government and society in managing civic integration within a multiethnic state.

One of the largest ethnic minorities in Georgia is the Azerbaijani population. Their settlement in Georgia dates back centuries. They are компактურად settled in Tbilisi, Kvemo Kartli, and Kakheti. According to statistical data, Azerbaijanis constitute approximately 7% of Georgia’s population. Their migration and settlement history in Georgia has been distinctive, accompanied by a complex process of adaptation (Ethnic Groups in Georgia, 2008). Azerbaijanis living in Georgia have preserved their language, religion, and traditions. However, it should be noted that prolonged coexistence with Georgians has had a particular influence on their cultural, mental, and ethnographic characteristics.

Keywords: Spring Equinox, Berika, Nowruz, Cultural Identity, Dialogue of Cultures